We are in another Ramadan, the blessed month in Islam.
Ramadan
- The month in which the Holy Quran was revealed
- The month in which Billions stay away from food happily, during the day time!
- The month in which there is long congrgational night prayers, called Taraweeh
- The month of I'tikaf in Masjid
- The month in which believers rush for all what is good
- The month in which the rich ones turns heavily towards charity
- The month of the victory of Badr
- The month of mercy of Allah
- The month of forgiveness from Allah
- The month in which Allah release lot of sinners from the Hellfire
- The month which has a night, the deeds in it exceeds the deeds of thousand months
- The month in which belevers recite holy Quran abundantly and byheart it.
Allah has promised great reward to those who fast in this month. Allah said in Quran, "It is ME who reward those who fast". There is a specail door called Rayyan in paradise through which only fasting people will be allowed to enter.
Ramadan is an yearly guest in every Muslim home. They make special cleaning of their homes in respect of the guest. Masjids change new carpets and mats to welcome Ramadan.
A month full of spiritual elevation across the globe!
A month full of spiritual opportunities.
Ramadan Mubarak to all the readers of Discussion Islam.
=================================================== As we are not using word to word translation, the quotes from Quran and Hadees in this blog should not be reproduced without verifying with the original texts.
Social relevance of congregational prayer (Salath) in Masjid.
Most of us attend the five times prayers regularly in congregation in Masjids.
Recently I was pondering about this great opportunity for us to meet with our brothers. During this thought something very strange struck my mind. In many occassions I go for Salath and perform Salath, make my zikr & duaa and come back calmly to my apartment......without sometimes talking to none!!!!
Then I observed many others. Surprisingly, I found that many are doing the same. They all come, sit quietly, pray, make zikr & duaa, get up and go back......!
I deicded then, in addition to the Mulaqaath with my Lord, each trip to Masjid should be looked as an opportunity to mingle with atleast one man inside or enroute the masjid.
When I tested this, it is totally a different experience! An experience in which the five times Salath become a spiritual as well as social journey.
What is your reading about this?
===================================================
As we are not using word to word translation, the quotes from Quran and Hadees in this blog should not be reproduced without verifying with the original texts.
Recently I was pondering about this great opportunity for us to meet with our brothers. During this thought something very strange struck my mind. In many occassions I go for Salath and perform Salath, make my zikr & duaa and come back calmly to my apartment......without sometimes talking to none!!!!
Then I observed many others. Surprisingly, I found that many are doing the same. They all come, sit quietly, pray, make zikr & duaa, get up and go back......!
I deicded then, in addition to the Mulaqaath with my Lord, each trip to Masjid should be looked as an opportunity to mingle with atleast one man inside or enroute the masjid.
When I tested this, it is totally a different experience! An experience in which the five times Salath become a spiritual as well as social journey.
What is your reading about this?
===================================================
As we are not using word to word translation, the quotes from Quran and Hadees in this blog should not be reproduced without verifying with the original texts.
Do you like to meet your Lord (Creator / God)?
.....Whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteous, and, in the worship of his Lord, admit no one as partner (Quran 18:110).
It is simple offer from Allah, our Lord. The choice is ours!
You might also be interested in the following:
Muslims in Kerala before Vasco Da Gama
Good Samaritan
Eternal Peace
Are they not pondering Quran
Four Popular Myths About Leadership
It is simple offer from Allah, our Lord. The choice is ours!
You might also be interested in the following:
Muslims in Kerala before Vasco Da Gama
Good Samaritan
Eternal Peace
Are they not pondering Quran
Four Popular Myths About Leadership
US ex-Guantanamo guard converts to Islam, prays in Makkah
Makkah, May 29: When US soldier Terry Brooks was sent to join military guards at the infamous Guantanamo prison that houses Moslem militants from Taliban and Al-Qaeda, he had not thought he would embrace the religion of those prisoners. After a few chats with a Moroccan inmate, he converted to Islam in 2003.
Brooks was caught by local reporters this week praying in the western Saudi town of Madina before heading for nearby Makkah to perform his first pilgrimage (Umra), which he said had been his dream over the past years.
The Saudi Arabic language daily Okaz said it waited for Brooks to finish his prayers and talked to him about his conversion to Islam. He credited “prisoner number 590” named Ahmed Al Rashdi of Morocco for his “landmark” decision. After converting, he was expelled from the army.
Brooks told the paper he was sent to Guantanamo long before 2003 and later started to mingle with some prisoners there.
“I still remember that great moment….the time was around 12:49 am in December 2003 when I embraced Islam…at that night, I took this landmark decision after numerous chat sessions with Al Rashdi,” he said.
“It was a memorable moment in my life…….many prisoners sat around me when I converted and decided to call me Mustafa as their new friend…later I added the name Abdullah so I am now called Mustafa Abdullah.”
Brooks said he had been delighted when the US army decided to send him to Guantanamo as it was an adventure for him since had not seen a prison before.
“When I arrived there, it was a big shock for me… even before I entered the prison buildings, I could see that it was horrible and could suit only cactus and poisonous reptiles….I then asked myself ‘are those people behind the bars really so dangerous that they are worth these costly security measures.”
Brooks said he started to be interested in Islam after his talks to Al Rashdi and other prisoners about Islam, Palestine, Afghanistan and the Middle East.
“I used to sit just outside their cells at night listening to them…by time, a sort of mutual respect developed between us …I had never believed in God before I went to Guantanamo.…now that I embraced Islam, I can feel the sweetness of religion…Islam is a pure religion and the ultimate right.”
Brooks said he had first concealed his decision to convert to Islam from other US guards at Guantanamo, adding that when the officer learned about it, he and the other soldiers began to treat him cruelly and accused him of betraying America. Around two years before the end of his contract, he was fired from the army.
“I am now working on a book about my experience to embrace Islam.…I have just quit my job in the US to devote my time to helping the prisoners in Guantanamo..…what is happening in that prison is really inhuman and violates the minimum principles of human rights,” he said.
Courtsey: http://www.siasat.com/english/news/us-ex-guantanamo-guard-convert-prays-makkah
Brooks was caught by local reporters this week praying in the western Saudi town of Madina before heading for nearby Makkah to perform his first pilgrimage (Umra), which he said had been his dream over the past years.
The Saudi Arabic language daily Okaz said it waited for Brooks to finish his prayers and talked to him about his conversion to Islam. He credited “prisoner number 590” named Ahmed Al Rashdi of Morocco for his “landmark” decision. After converting, he was expelled from the army.
Brooks told the paper he was sent to Guantanamo long before 2003 and later started to mingle with some prisoners there.
“I still remember that great moment….the time was around 12:49 am in December 2003 when I embraced Islam…at that night, I took this landmark decision after numerous chat sessions with Al Rashdi,” he said.
“It was a memorable moment in my life…….many prisoners sat around me when I converted and decided to call me Mustafa as their new friend…later I added the name Abdullah so I am now called Mustafa Abdullah.”
Brooks said he had been delighted when the US army decided to send him to Guantanamo as it was an adventure for him since had not seen a prison before.
“When I arrived there, it was a big shock for me… even before I entered the prison buildings, I could see that it was horrible and could suit only cactus and poisonous reptiles….I then asked myself ‘are those people behind the bars really so dangerous that they are worth these costly security measures.”
Brooks said he started to be interested in Islam after his talks to Al Rashdi and other prisoners about Islam, Palestine, Afghanistan and the Middle East.
“I used to sit just outside their cells at night listening to them…by time, a sort of mutual respect developed between us …I had never believed in God before I went to Guantanamo.…now that I embraced Islam, I can feel the sweetness of religion…Islam is a pure religion and the ultimate right.”
Brooks said he had first concealed his decision to convert to Islam from other US guards at Guantanamo, adding that when the officer learned about it, he and the other soldiers began to treat him cruelly and accused him of betraying America. Around two years before the end of his contract, he was fired from the army.
“I am now working on a book about my experience to embrace Islam.…I have just quit my job in the US to devote my time to helping the prisoners in Guantanamo..…what is happening in that prison is really inhuman and violates the minimum principles of human rights,” he said.
Courtsey: http://www.siasat.com/english/news/us-ex-guantanamo-guard-convert-prays-makkah
Mathrubhoomi weekly (May 15-21, 2011) about Kamala Surayya again
Very much surprised to read the cover story of Mathrubhoomi weekly (May 15-21, 2011) about Kamala Surayya.
The article by K.P Nirmal Kumar "Malayali Ariyaatha Madhavikkutty" is something from a still intolerent state of mind about her conversion to Islam.
“My mother was a Muslim for many years and died a Muslim. She had converted to Islam happily and of her free will. It doesn’t matter what I or my brothers want. It was her wish (to convert to Islam) and we will respect it and abide by it. There is no way a posthumous reconversion can be held. So her funeral will have to be as per Islamic norms. It was also her wish that she be returned to Kerala,” Monu Nalapat, Madhavikutty’s eldest son, said.
The soul of the so called elites of Kerala are still not able to accept this reality till today!
The article is written in the context of a new book by Merrily Weisbord.
May Allah lead us all to His mercy like He led Kamala Surayya (Late) and many others. Islam is not the family affair of Muslims. It is the religion of liberation. Liberation from all bonds. Liberation from all that is false!
The door of Islam is open to people like Merrily Weisbord and K.P Nirmal Kumar as well!
Islam is for the success of a human being both in this word as well as in the life after death. Islam has no agenda except liberating man from all that is false to the eternal truth. To Allah.
The article by K.P Nirmal Kumar "Malayali Ariyaatha Madhavikkutty" is something from a still intolerent state of mind about her conversion to Islam.
“My mother was a Muslim for many years and died a Muslim. She had converted to Islam happily and of her free will. It doesn’t matter what I or my brothers want. It was her wish (to convert to Islam) and we will respect it and abide by it. There is no way a posthumous reconversion can be held. So her funeral will have to be as per Islamic norms. It was also her wish that she be returned to Kerala,” Monu Nalapat, Madhavikutty’s eldest son, said.
The soul of the so called elites of Kerala are still not able to accept this reality till today!
The article is written in the context of a new book by Merrily Weisbord.
May Allah lead us all to His mercy like He led Kamala Surayya (Late) and many others. Islam is not the family affair of Muslims. It is the religion of liberation. Liberation from all bonds. Liberation from all that is false!
The door of Islam is open to people like Merrily Weisbord and K.P Nirmal Kumar as well!
Islam is for the success of a human being both in this word as well as in the life after death. Islam has no agenda except liberating man from all that is false to the eternal truth. To Allah.
Mankind is created to worship
Allah says in Quran:
And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me. (Chapter:51 Verse: 56)
In a Hadees, Prophet Mohammed told:
Allah says, if the son of Adam (Man) make himself free for remembering (worshipping) Allah, then Allah will fill his mind with ghina (richness)! And if the son of Adam is not ready for this Allh will keep his mind in a busy state! And Allah will never take away the state of Faqr (Poverty) from you.
I was astonished to hear this Hadees in a class by br. Ahmed Kutty Madani.
We are all busy on a materialistic world. With all what we do, we are still concerned of our future! Was this Hadees of Prophet (SA) particulary about this era? Remember our childhood where our parents and grant parents were very much relaxed compared to our time! And the reason.......?
Let us get the lesson from this Hadees and make ourselves free for worshipping Allah, the very reason behind our creation!
Once we free ourselves, Allah has promised that he will fill our mind with ghina (richness)!
......and upon Allah the believers should rely. (Holy Quran 3:122)
Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured. (Holy Quran 13:28)
And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me. (Chapter:51 Verse: 56)
In a Hadees, Prophet Mohammed told:
Allah says, if the son of Adam (Man) make himself free for remembering (worshipping) Allah, then Allah will fill his mind with ghina (richness)! And if the son of Adam is not ready for this Allh will keep his mind in a busy state! And Allah will never take away the state of Faqr (Poverty) from you.
I was astonished to hear this Hadees in a class by br. Ahmed Kutty Madani.
We are all busy on a materialistic world. With all what we do, we are still concerned of our future! Was this Hadees of Prophet (SA) particulary about this era? Remember our childhood where our parents and grant parents were very much relaxed compared to our time! And the reason.......?
Let us get the lesson from this Hadees and make ourselves free for worshipping Allah, the very reason behind our creation!
Once we free ourselves, Allah has promised that he will fill our mind with ghina (richness)!
......and upon Allah the believers should rely. (Holy Quran 3:122)
Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured. (Holy Quran 13:28)
Importance of good deeds, how small they be
Holy Quran chapter 101,
Verses 6: Then as for one whose scales are heavy [with good deeds]
Verses 7: He will be in a pleasant life.
Verses 8: But as for one whose scales are light.
Verses 9: His refuge will be an abyss.
Verses10: And what can make you know what that is?
Verses11: It is a Fire, intensely hot.
These verses should be remembered always in our life. We have 84,600 seconds per day. Each second is an opportunity made or lost!
Successfull people are the ones who made use of their time to perform good deeds and managed to make their scales heavier with good deeds.
Lost are the ones who neglected their time and hence made their scales lighter!
In this context don't you feel the importance of each second.
Don't you feel how important it is to grab all that is good even it is not so big.
Remember the words our beloved prophet:
- Even removing the hurdles from the path are good deeds
- Smiling at your brother is also a good deed
- Even when you are seeing the Qiyamath in front of you, go ahead with the planting of a tree which is in your hand.
- Safeguard yourself from the hell fire even with a peice of date
- If you take care of one of the burden of your brother in this life, Allah will bear a burden of your's in the day of judgement.
Quran again says in Chapter -7:
Vesre-7: Then We will surely relate [their deeds] to them with knowledge, and We were not [at all] absent.
Verse-8: And those whose scales are light - they are the ones who will lose themselves for what injustice they were doing toward Our verses.
Vesrse-9: And the weighing [of deeds] that Day will be the truth. So those whose scales are heavy - it is they who will be the successful.
Verses 6: Then as for one whose scales are heavy [with good deeds]
Verses 7: He will be in a pleasant life.
Verses 8: But as for one whose scales are light.
Verses 9: His refuge will be an abyss.
Verses10: And what can make you know what that is?
Verses11: It is a Fire, intensely hot.
These verses should be remembered always in our life. We have 84,600 seconds per day. Each second is an opportunity made or lost!
Successfull people are the ones who made use of their time to perform good deeds and managed to make their scales heavier with good deeds.
Lost are the ones who neglected their time and hence made their scales lighter!
In this context don't you feel the importance of each second.
Don't you feel how important it is to grab all that is good even it is not so big.
Remember the words our beloved prophet:
- Even removing the hurdles from the path are good deeds
- Smiling at your brother is also a good deed
- Even when you are seeing the Qiyamath in front of you, go ahead with the planting of a tree which is in your hand.
- Safeguard yourself from the hell fire even with a peice of date
- If you take care of one of the burden of your brother in this life, Allah will bear a burden of your's in the day of judgement.
Quran again says in Chapter -7:
Vesre-7: Then We will surely relate [their deeds] to them with knowledge, and We were not [at all] absent.
Verse-8: And those whose scales are light - they are the ones who will lose themselves for what injustice they were doing toward Our verses.
Vesrse-9: And the weighing [of deeds] that Day will be the truth. So those whose scales are heavy - it is they who will be the successful.
Parenting :Swimming Against The Current
We are living in a strange time of rat races, struggling to keep up with others around us. This race is not
only limited to our wealth, status, or any other type of materialism, but also includes the way we carry out
many of our daily roles in life, especially as parents. The way we raise our children and the values/goals
we set for them has become a matter of competition. The definition of a good parent, in our world,
revolves around how comfortably our children are raised, how much money we are able to collect and
spend on them, the amount of good, fresh food that is provided daily, and what “type” of secular
education we are able to provide for them. The more we are able to provide of these worldly things, the
better we are perceived as fulfilling parents.
As bound by our nature, we follow the herd, meaning the norm of our society. Similarly, we pass on the
same goals and priorities to our children. Even if someone desires to live a different lifestyle, it is very
easy to succumb to the daily grind because of our surrounding environment.
However, as Muslim parents we are entrusted with responsibilities beyond the success of this world.
Hence, we cannot afford to go with the flow if we do not know where this flow will ultimately take us.
Therefore, it is binding upon a Muslim parent to know:
1-What our goal is as parents
2-Who our role models should be
If our ultimate goal is strictly bound to the benefits of this world, then we can follow the trends of this
world and our worries are limited; wishing only for our children a good education, a college degree, and a
STDs/drug free life. On the other hand, if we have the next world in mind, then we must set ourselves
additional values and goals which probably require swimming against the current, which is an extremely
challenging and almost impossible task, unless stimulated by a solid motivation.
Why Set Superior Goals?
Why do we have to be the odd parent struggling to move against the current and creating more trouble
for ourselves and complications for our child/ren? In a nutshell, remember we are alive not to focus on
this world but rather to aim for the next world.
In my humble opinion, a loving parent is not one whose only focus is to fill his/her children’s stomachs,
find them the best clothing, provide them with a comfortable place to live, and concentrate on their higher
education. I believe that TRUE love is reflected in how much attention is paid to the real purpose of their
existence and to their final destination.
I was told about a young Pakistani man who had recently graduated with a Master’s degree from abroad
and then returned to his motherland. He was an only child and his parents had “done it all” for their only
son from the time he was born; they provided him with a luxurious upbringing and the best education of
their time. However, and unfortunately, it didn’t include any religious guidance as that did not seem to be
of value or importance. Disappointing to say, the young man fell sick and was diagnosed with cancer in
its last stages. When he was hospitalized, he met an old man who talked to him about life after death,
heaven and hell, and his last journey. That day, the young man cried like a little baby for he was not
prepared for his journey, and he had nothing to take to his real destination. He questioned his parents
about their negligence, looking at his degrees and achievements in dismay. How can his Master’s help
salvage him? His parents realized their error but could only rue their heedlessness. Nevertheless, he was
blessed during his final hours with a teacher who helped him learn
salah, the Qur’an, and more of the
basics of Islamic knowledge. I do not know if this young man lived or if he rests in his grave now, but I do
hope and pray that Allah
‘azza wa jall accepted his efforts, grants him Jannah, and forgives him and his
parents.
Ameen.
Let’s keep in mind that not everyone gets a last minute opportunity to make up for life-long negligence.
Death comes unannounced and at the least expected moments; it is a reality that we can all be assured
of. The question is, how many of us are preparing our children for that inevitable moment?
My daughter is fatally allergic to peanuts. A few years back, she had an accidental exposure to peanuts,
causing an extremely dangerous reaction. On our way to the ER, she was throwing up, breathing
abnormally, and her lips were turning blue. As I held her head in my arms, she whispered to me, “It’s okay
mama, everyone has to die some day!” Her eyes rolled backwards (I will never forget that sight), and I
thought we were going to lose her before we made it to the hospital. She was in indescribable pain, and
as a mother I felt helpless because I couldn’t do anything for her. All I wanted was for her to stop hurting,
but I couldn’t take her pain away. To make a long story short,
alhamdulillah no ill became of her; a short
stay in the ER of the hospital and we were able to return home the same night. Still, that day I realized
my limitations as a parent. When I thought I would lose her, I was willing to exchange my soul for hers,
but it was a useless and absurd bargain to even think of. I realized that if those were her last moments,
nothing would have benefitted her except her preparations for her final destination. My children might
travel on their last journey before I do, and it is a journey they have to take alone. I will not be able to help
them at this time and can only help them get ready for their meeting with the angel of death.
So, dear parents, while we prepare our children for their interview at an Ivy League school or for a big
job, we cannot and must not forget about their ultimate interview and meeting with the angel of death.
And with this in mind, we must aim to raise our children in a way appropriate and safe for their
akhirah as
well as their
dunya, insha’Allah.
Having said this, I am not undermining secular education by any means. I am a firm believer that a
secular education is very important for our children, particularly during this era. They must know and
understand the world they live in, which is for their benefit; they must also be educated to secure a good
job and be self-sufficient as a Muslim should be.
Yet, we must find a balance when we raise Muslim children while aiming for the
akhirah, all the while
doing well in this
dunya. Our children study at school for 8 hours a day and come home with tons of
homework, so where do we “fit in” Islam into their lives? This is the question posed in every Muslim
parent’s mind whose kids are not homeschooled or are not attending an Islamic school.
I wish I had a step-by-step guide for every parent according to their child’s type and age. Unfortunately, I
don’t. And although I am not an expert in this field, I have a few suggestions to offer parents, some
based on my own experience as a parent, some from counseling teenagers and other parents, and
some based on simple observations.
Let us keep in mind that Islam is not a “subject” that we teach as a second-language or like sports
training for soccer or football where we train/educate for a few hours during the day and then forget all
about it until the next class. Rather, it is our religion, a way of life, and should be dealt with and taught like
any daily ritual of our lives. In other words, instill our religion in their everyday lives, so it is indigenous to
them. It obviously requires a lot of effort from us as parents but be assured our good effort is never
wasted:
“…then Allah surely does not waste the reward of the doers of good.” (12:90)
Better yet, we will thus achieve our goal,
insha’Allah, and our children will become a sadaqah jaariyyah
(ongoing charity) for us, not to mention that they will secure their
akhirah, by the mercy of Allah.
“When a person dies, all his deeds come to an end except three: ongoing charity, beneficial
knowledge (which he has left behind), or a righteous child who will pray for him.”
Let us be assured that it is, perhaps, the bare minimum requirement of being a “Muslim” parent, for the
Prophet of Allah (
sallAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:
“Each of you is a shepherd and each of you is responsible for his flock. The
imaam is a shepherd
and is responsible for his flock. A man is the shepherd of his family and is responsible for his
flock. A woman is the shepherd of her husband’s house and is responsible for her flock. A
servant is the shepherd of his master’s wealth and is responsible for his flock…” (Bukhaari;
Muslim)
Our children are entrusted to us by Allah ‘
azza wa jall, so we must set proper values for them and direct
their lives in the correct direction. If we neglect our responsibilities, then not only do we become partially
responsible for spoiling our children’s
akhirah (if they go astray), but we also subject ourselves to
punishment. Remember the Day when we will flee from our children; it will not be for any other reason but
out of fear that they might question us about their neglected rights:
“That Day shall a man flee from his brother, And from his mother and his father, And from his wife
and his children. Every man, that Day, will have enough to make him careless of others.”
(80:34-37)
After all this, how can we not have the
akhirah as the ultimate goal for our children, and how can we not
aim for
Jannah for our children? How can we neglect their akhira and not prioritize their deen in their
lives?
Dear parents, it is strange that when it comes to this world, we always have high goals for our children
and our expectations know no bounds, but when it comes to their real destiny, we aim for the bare
minimum. We never settle for just high school, but rather from the time of their birth we remain ever
consistent with the hope of at least a Bachelor’s degree. On the other hand, when it comes to their
akhirah
, we are pleased with ‘as long as they pray’, ‘fast Ramadan’, or ‘fulfill the fundamental 5 pillars’ for
the entirety of their existence!
==================================
From an email forwarded by Mr. Sabeel Saleem
only limited to our wealth, status, or any other type of materialism, but also includes the way we carry out
many of our daily roles in life, especially as parents. The way we raise our children and the values/goals
we set for them has become a matter of competition. The definition of a good parent, in our world,
revolves around how comfortably our children are raised, how much money we are able to collect and
spend on them, the amount of good, fresh food that is provided daily, and what “type” of secular
education we are able to provide for them. The more we are able to provide of these worldly things, the
better we are perceived as fulfilling parents.
As bound by our nature, we follow the herd, meaning the norm of our society. Similarly, we pass on the
same goals and priorities to our children. Even if someone desires to live a different lifestyle, it is very
easy to succumb to the daily grind because of our surrounding environment.
However, as Muslim parents we are entrusted with responsibilities beyond the success of this world.
Hence, we cannot afford to go with the flow if we do not know where this flow will ultimately take us.
Therefore, it is binding upon a Muslim parent to know:
1-What our goal is as parents
2-Who our role models should be
If our ultimate goal is strictly bound to the benefits of this world, then we can follow the trends of this
world and our worries are limited; wishing only for our children a good education, a college degree, and a
STDs/drug free life. On the other hand, if we have the next world in mind, then we must set ourselves
additional values and goals which probably require swimming against the current, which is an extremely
challenging and almost impossible task, unless stimulated by a solid motivation.
Why Set Superior Goals?
Why do we have to be the odd parent struggling to move against the current and creating more trouble
for ourselves and complications for our child/ren? In a nutshell, remember we are alive not to focus on
this world but rather to aim for the next world.
In my humble opinion, a loving parent is not one whose only focus is to fill his/her children’s stomachs,
find them the best clothing, provide them with a comfortable place to live, and concentrate on their higher
education. I believe that TRUE love is reflected in how much attention is paid to the real purpose of their
existence and to their final destination.
I was told about a young Pakistani man who had recently graduated with a Master’s degree from abroad
and then returned to his motherland. He was an only child and his parents had “done it all” for their only
son from the time he was born; they provided him with a luxurious upbringing and the best education of
their time. However, and unfortunately, it didn’t include any religious guidance as that did not seem to be
of value or importance. Disappointing to say, the young man fell sick and was diagnosed with cancer in
its last stages. When he was hospitalized, he met an old man who talked to him about life after death,
heaven and hell, and his last journey. That day, the young man cried like a little baby for he was not
prepared for his journey, and he had nothing to take to his real destination. He questioned his parents
about their negligence, looking at his degrees and achievements in dismay. How can his Master’s help
salvage him? His parents realized their error but could only rue their heedlessness. Nevertheless, he was
blessed during his final hours with a teacher who helped him learn
salah, the Qur’an, and more of the
basics of Islamic knowledge. I do not know if this young man lived or if he rests in his grave now, but I do
hope and pray that Allah
‘azza wa jall accepted his efforts, grants him Jannah, and forgives him and his
parents.
Ameen.
Let’s keep in mind that not everyone gets a last minute opportunity to make up for life-long negligence.
Death comes unannounced and at the least expected moments; it is a reality that we can all be assured
of. The question is, how many of us are preparing our children for that inevitable moment?
My daughter is fatally allergic to peanuts. A few years back, she had an accidental exposure to peanuts,
causing an extremely dangerous reaction. On our way to the ER, she was throwing up, breathing
abnormally, and her lips were turning blue. As I held her head in my arms, she whispered to me, “It’s okay
mama, everyone has to die some day!” Her eyes rolled backwards (I will never forget that sight), and I
thought we were going to lose her before we made it to the hospital. She was in indescribable pain, and
as a mother I felt helpless because I couldn’t do anything for her. All I wanted was for her to stop hurting,
but I couldn’t take her pain away. To make a long story short,
alhamdulillah no ill became of her; a short
stay in the ER of the hospital and we were able to return home the same night. Still, that day I realized
my limitations as a parent. When I thought I would lose her, I was willing to exchange my soul for hers,
but it was a useless and absurd bargain to even think of. I realized that if those were her last moments,
nothing would have benefitted her except her preparations for her final destination. My children might
travel on their last journey before I do, and it is a journey they have to take alone. I will not be able to help
them at this time and can only help them get ready for their meeting with the angel of death.
So, dear parents, while we prepare our children for their interview at an Ivy League school or for a big
job, we cannot and must not forget about their ultimate interview and meeting with the angel of death.
And with this in mind, we must aim to raise our children in a way appropriate and safe for their
akhirah as
well as their
dunya, insha’Allah.
Having said this, I am not undermining secular education by any means. I am a firm believer that a
secular education is very important for our children, particularly during this era. They must know and
understand the world they live in, which is for their benefit; they must also be educated to secure a good
job and be self-sufficient as a Muslim should be.
Yet, we must find a balance when we raise Muslim children while aiming for the
akhirah, all the while
doing well in this
dunya. Our children study at school for 8 hours a day and come home with tons of
homework, so where do we “fit in” Islam into their lives? This is the question posed in every Muslim
parent’s mind whose kids are not homeschooled or are not attending an Islamic school.
I wish I had a step-by-step guide for every parent according to their child’s type and age. Unfortunately, I
don’t. And although I am not an expert in this field, I have a few suggestions to offer parents, some
based on my own experience as a parent, some from counseling teenagers and other parents, and
some based on simple observations.
Let us keep in mind that Islam is not a “subject” that we teach as a second-language or like sports
training for soccer or football where we train/educate for a few hours during the day and then forget all
about it until the next class. Rather, it is our religion, a way of life, and should be dealt with and taught like
any daily ritual of our lives. In other words, instill our religion in their everyday lives, so it is indigenous to
them. It obviously requires a lot of effort from us as parents but be assured our good effort is never
wasted:
“…then Allah surely does not waste the reward of the doers of good.” (12:90)
Better yet, we will thus achieve our goal,
insha’Allah, and our children will become a sadaqah jaariyyah
(ongoing charity) for us, not to mention that they will secure their
akhirah, by the mercy of Allah.
“When a person dies, all his deeds come to an end except three: ongoing charity, beneficial
knowledge (which he has left behind), or a righteous child who will pray for him.”
Let us be assured that it is, perhaps, the bare minimum requirement of being a “Muslim” parent, for the
Prophet of Allah (
sallAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:
“Each of you is a shepherd and each of you is responsible for his flock. The
imaam is a shepherd
and is responsible for his flock. A man is the shepherd of his family and is responsible for his
flock. A woman is the shepherd of her husband’s house and is responsible for her flock. A
servant is the shepherd of his master’s wealth and is responsible for his flock…” (Bukhaari;
Muslim)
Our children are entrusted to us by Allah ‘
azza wa jall, so we must set proper values for them and direct
their lives in the correct direction. If we neglect our responsibilities, then not only do we become partially
responsible for spoiling our children’s
akhirah (if they go astray), but we also subject ourselves to
punishment. Remember the Day when we will flee from our children; it will not be for any other reason but
out of fear that they might question us about their neglected rights:
“That Day shall a man flee from his brother, And from his mother and his father, And from his wife
and his children. Every man, that Day, will have enough to make him careless of others.”
(80:34-37)
After all this, how can we not have the
akhirah as the ultimate goal for our children, and how can we not
aim for
Jannah for our children? How can we neglect their akhira and not prioritize their deen in their
lives?
Dear parents, it is strange that when it comes to this world, we always have high goals for our children
and our expectations know no bounds, but when it comes to their real destiny, we aim for the bare
minimum. We never settle for just high school, but rather from the time of their birth we remain ever
consistent with the hope of at least a Bachelor’s degree. On the other hand, when it comes to their
akhirah
, we are pleased with ‘as long as they pray’, ‘fast Ramadan’, or ‘fulfill the fundamental 5 pillars’ for
the entirety of their existence!
==================================
From an email forwarded by Mr. Sabeel Saleem
Muslims in Kerala before Vascodagama (Vasco Da Gama)
I attended the guest of the month program organized by FOCUS Jeddah.
This time the guest was Prof. KM Mohammed, an Arabic language expert who won the award from President of India, for his services.
Prof. Mohammed gave an interesting session giving light to his experiences during the early days of his education, during his services across various colleges and universities in Kerala, Assam, J&K etc.
He is an authority on Arabic and Islamic history of Kerala. While answering a question, his explanation about the history of Muslims in Kerala before the era of Vascodagama shed light to a much untold prosperity.
The Muslim scholars then in Ponnani and all excelled in everything they touched. He was quoting from authentic sources like Malabar Manual written by William Logan. The Muslims were the right hands of Samoothiri rulers. It was a time when muslims were controlling the whole trade in the area.
The portugese invasion made everything upside down in Kerala in general and particularly for Muslims. The lose of control in trade, moving from cities to suburbs, the later fight against the British, the all out Malabar Lahala in 1921, It is always interesting know the past and learn from there.
It was a nice week end feast.
This time the guest was Prof. KM Mohammed, an Arabic language expert who won the award from President of India, for his services.
Prof. Mohammed gave an interesting session giving light to his experiences during the early days of his education, during his services across various colleges and universities in Kerala, Assam, J&K etc.
He is an authority on Arabic and Islamic history of Kerala. While answering a question, his explanation about the history of Muslims in Kerala before the era of Vascodagama shed light to a much untold prosperity.
The Muslim scholars then in Ponnani and all excelled in everything they touched. He was quoting from authentic sources like Malabar Manual written by William Logan. The Muslims were the right hands of Samoothiri rulers. It was a time when muslims were controlling the whole trade in the area.
The portugese invasion made everything upside down in Kerala in general and particularly for Muslims. The lose of control in trade, moving from cities to suburbs, the later fight against the British, the all out Malabar Lahala in 1921, It is always interesting know the past and learn from there.
It was a nice week end feast.
Seven responsibilities / Obligations of a ruler to the citizens
These days I am reading book written by Prof. KM Mohammed on the topic "Contributions of Kerala to the Arabic Literature".
One of the many early days contributors from the book is Fadhl Bin Ali (Tasleekuddawabi Ilaa Twareeqissawaab - Published in 1858.
Along with other subjects, the book lists seven responsibilities / Obligations of a ruler to the citizens:
1. To prevent innovation in religion and guide the people to follow the teachings of religion.
2. To protect the life and property of the citizens.
3. To maintain the fertile nature of the earth and fullfill its needs.
4. Gather the wealth in the cause of religion without affecting losses in collection or distribution.
5. Help the oppressed and ensure justice to them
6. Make sure that the culprits are given the just punishments only.
7. Appoint employees based on thier merits only.
I liked the third and the seventh points very much.
It is nice to read that on a religious basis earlier generations were aware of the environmental responsibility, the very basic condition for keeping the health of the society etc.
One of the many early days contributors from the book is Fadhl Bin Ali (Tasleekuddawabi Ilaa Twareeqissawaab - Published in 1858.
Along with other subjects, the book lists seven responsibilities / Obligations of a ruler to the citizens:
1. To prevent innovation in religion and guide the people to follow the teachings of religion.
2. To protect the life and property of the citizens.
3. To maintain the fertile nature of the earth and fullfill its needs.
4. Gather the wealth in the cause of religion without affecting losses in collection or distribution.
5. Help the oppressed and ensure justice to them
6. Make sure that the culprits are given the just punishments only.
7. Appoint employees based on thier merits only.
I liked the third and the seventh points very much.
It is nice to read that on a religious basis earlier generations were aware of the environmental responsibility, the very basic condition for keeping the health of the society etc.
Kheelan Salama
Quran says that the word most heard in the paradise shall be "salama", which means peace (Shanthi!).
When a muslim meet another person the word of greeting is "Assalamu Alaikum", which means "May peace be upon you".
In these days when they are projecting Islam with the image of Osama Binladen (there is some report that the photo shown is fraud!), it is the responsibility of all muslims to send the true message of Islam to the world at large.
Probably this is the best time for it, because all are in attentive mode now.
Islam is NOT TERROR, it is the religion for the liberation of humanity from everything that is false, both spiritual and physical. Islam talks to the intellect of each person, he be a high ranking member in the society or just a very poor and weak member in the society.
He has certainly succeeded who purifies himself (Quran :87-14)
And he has failed who instills it [with corruption] (Quran :91-10)
When a muslim meet another person the word of greeting is "Assalamu Alaikum", which means "May peace be upon you".
In these days when they are projecting Islam with the image of Osama Binladen (there is some report that the photo shown is fraud!), it is the responsibility of all muslims to send the true message of Islam to the world at large.
Probably this is the best time for it, because all are in attentive mode now.
Islam is NOT TERROR, it is the religion for the liberation of humanity from everything that is false, both spiritual and physical. Islam talks to the intellect of each person, he be a high ranking member in the society or just a very poor and weak member in the society.
He has certainly succeeded who purifies himself (Quran :87-14)
And he has failed who instills it [with corruption] (Quran :91-10)
Theory of Evolution
When I was young I was taught and experienced through life that Islam stands for justice and "for all that is good".
Later in my teend ages (1980s)the news papers started putting a label of "fundamentalists" on muslims.
Later this word took several evolutionary breaks like rebels, extremists, terrorists etc.
Now the latest form is "Revolutionists" based on the protests against the rulers in the Arab world!
I think I will be able to die after seeing the repeat of the cycle were Muslims will be in their natural role of "torch bearers of humanity".
Later in my teend ages (1980s)the news papers started putting a label of "fundamentalists" on muslims.
Later this word took several evolutionary breaks like rebels, extremists, terrorists etc.
Now the latest form is "Revolutionists" based on the protests against the rulers in the Arab world!
I think I will be able to die after seeing the repeat of the cycle were Muslims will be in their natural role of "torch bearers of humanity".
Ten things to know about Anna Hazare and Lok Pal Bill
1. Who is Anna Hazare?
An ex-army man. Fought 1965 Indo-Pak War
2. What's so special about him?
He built a village Ralegaon Siddhi in Ahamad Nagar district, Maharashtra
3. So what?
This village is a self-sustained model village. Energy is produced in the village itself from solar power, biofuel and wind mills.
In 1975, it used to be a poverty clad village. Now it is one of the richest village in India. It has become a model for self-sustained, eco-friendly & harmonic village.
4. Ok,...?
This guy, Anna Hazare was awarded Padma Bhushan and is a known figure for his social activities.
5. Really, what is he fighting for?
He is supporting a cause, the amendment of a law to curb corruption in India.
6. How that can be possible?
He is advocating for a Bil, The Lok Pal Bill (The Citizen Ombudsman Bill), that will form an autonomous authority who will make politicians (ministers), beurocrats (IAS/IPS) accountable for their deeds.
7. It's an entirely new thing right..?
In 1972, the bill was proposed by then Law minister Mr. Shanti Bhushan. Since then it has been neglected by the politicians and some are trying to change the bill to suit thier theft (corruption).
8. Oh.. He is going on a hunger strike for that whole thing of passing a Bill ! How can that be possible in such a short span of time?
The first thing he is asking for is: the government should come forward and announce that the bill is going to be passed.
Next, they make a joint committee to DRAFT the LOK PAL BILL. 50% goverment participation and 50% public participation. Because you cant trust the government entirely for making such a bill which does not suit them.
9. Fine, What will happen when this bill is passed?
A LokPal will be appointed at the centre. He will have an autonomous charge, say like the Election Commission of India. In each and every state, Lokayukta will be appointed. The job is to bring all alleged party to trial in case of corruptions within 1 year. Within 2 years, the guilty will be punished. Not like, Bofors scam or Bhopal Gas Tragedy case, that has been going for last 25 years without any result.
10. Is he alone? Whoelse is there in the fight with Anna Hazare?
Baba Ramdev, Ex. IPS Kiran Bedi, Social Activist Swami Agnivesh, RTI activist Arvind Kejriwal and many more.
Ok, got it. What we can do?
o At least we can spread the message. How?
o Putting status message, links, video, changing profile pics.
o Give a missed call to 022-61550789 (it will disconnect by itself after 1 or 2 call) by doing this your mobile number will be registered in that number and you will receive
SMS from Sri Anna Hazare what next can be done.
o At least we can support Anna Hazare and the cause for uprooting corruption from India.
o At least we can hope that his Hunger Strike does not go in vain.
o At least we can pray for his good health.
o Kindly forward it to as many people as you can to create an awareness
Note: Thanks to Mr. Nasrulla K., who forwarded the content of this post to me by email.
Invocation (Duaa) : The strongest weapon in our hands
The first chapter in Quran -Sura Fathiha with only seven verses - ends with the most beatiful and strong words of invocation (duaa).
Quran Ends with two beatiful chapters giving mankind such great tools to seek refuge from all that is evil and to seek asylum in the hands of the Creator.
When we read across, Quran is quoting the invocations of many of the earlier prophets:
The invocation of Prophet Adam (AS)and Eve: Asking forgiveness for their sin.
The invocation of Prophet Noah (AS): Praying for the forgivesness of parents, Muslim men and women.
The invocation of Prophet Yunus (AS): The famous invocation from the darkness inside the stomach of the whlale to rescue him.
The invocation of Prophet Ayyoob (AS): The invocation to cure his disease, which made all his friends, relatives including wife abandoned him.
The invocation of Prophet Yusuf (AS): His beatiful invoation to make him die as a muslim and to enjoin him among the righteous people (Faathirassamaavaathi Wal Ardhi, Antha Waliyyee fiddunyaa Wal Aakhirathi, Tawaffanee Musliman Wa Alhiqnee bissaliheen)
The invocation of Prophet Ibrahim / Abraham (AS): The duaa to accept their good deed of re-constructing Holy Kaaba in Makkah.
Each invocation is a lesson for us. Let us look at the invocation of Prophet Ibrahim, for example.
Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail rebuilt the Holy Kaaba in Makkah. After they completed their hard work they raised their hands to Allah and made this Duaa to accept their good deed. There is a great lesson in this. It is not always enough that we work hard in the cause of Allah. Along with our work there should be a praying heart, which makes the work we did more deeper and stronger.
Duaa is a strong weapon, which is too much under utilized by us. Duaa can change the state of the affairs in totality! See this saying of Prophet (SA): Beware of the duaa of the oppressed! Because there is no partition between their duaa and Allah!
WHAT MORE IS TO BE SAID ABOUT THIS WEAPON?!
Prophet Mohammed (SA) has taught us Duaas for all occassions in life:
- There is Duua when you get up from the bed.
- There is Duua when you go to toilet
- There is Duua when you eat food
- There is Duua when you wear a new dress
- There is Duua when you embark a vehicle
- There is Duua when you start your journey
- There is Duua when you visit a patient
- There is Duua when you go to bed
YES. There is Duaa to make all the occassions more meaningful and powerful.....!
Allah has promised that he will answer all the prayers of his slaves- in any one of the three form of answering and rewarding. (Wa Ida Sa'alaka Ibadee Annee..........Ujeebu Da'watha-dda'i ida da'anee: Quran)
Dua has certain simple priorities:
First priority is to pray for ourselves
Then for our parents and relatives
Then for the whole Ummath, to those who are alive and to those who already started the eternal jouney before us.
Duaa of a good child is one of the great blessing a human being can have even after his death!Remember the saying of Prophet (SA): Only three things remain after the death of person: His good deeds, His charities-which are still delivering, His children who are praying for him!
Similarly there are certain conditions for Duaa to be accepted by Allah:
In one of his saying Prophet (SA) said: Some of you raise the hands and says "Ya Rabb", "Ya Rabb". How can his invocation be answered? What he eats is from forbidden means, what he drinks is from forbidden means, what he wears is from forbidden means.
YES. We must make sure that we are not crossing the boarders, to make sure that our duaas are answered.
Allah has earmarked certain time and space in a bid to give better chances for us to make duaa and make use of them while drive through. For example:
- Duaa after five time compulsory prayers is most recommended.
- Duaa between Adhan and Iqaamath is most recommended.
- Duaa in the state of Wudu is most recommended.
- Duaa in the state of turning towards Qibla is most recommended.
- Duaa during and after Tahjjud prayer is most recommended.
- Duaa after breaking the fast is most recommended.
- Duaa in the month of Ramadaan is most recommended.
- Duaa during the first ten days of Dulhijja is most recommended.
- Duaa while you tavel is most recommended.
Never miss a chance for duaa and zikr (Remembrance and /or Praise to Allah).
Prophet (SA) said: Make use of two words, which are very light for the tongue at the same time very heavy in the 'balance'. Those words are: Subhaanallahi Wabihamdihi Subhanallahil Adheem.
We can make Zikr at any occassions and at any state we are in to. As per Quran, all creatures in the universe are making zikr. How can one keep away from supplication and zikr, except those who are arrogant and having 'hearts harder than stones'. (Like the ones in Quran Chapter -2: Verse -74)
I remember reading Kamala Srayya (Madhavikkutti) once: I have the greatest hope in Allah's promise that He will forgive "ALL SINS" in totality to those who whole-heartedly return back to him.
YES!
What else can make our mind so cool and floating (THE NIRVAANA STATE?) except this promise from Allah!
=======Written from the spirit (Not all text are from the speech) of the speech by Br. Sakeer Farooqi in Jeddah on 11th February 2011.======
Quran Ends with two beatiful chapters giving mankind such great tools to seek refuge from all that is evil and to seek asylum in the hands of the Creator.
When we read across, Quran is quoting the invocations of many of the earlier prophets:
The invocation of Prophet Adam (AS)and Eve: Asking forgiveness for their sin.
The invocation of Prophet Noah (AS): Praying for the forgivesness of parents, Muslim men and women.
The invocation of Prophet Yunus (AS): The famous invocation from the darkness inside the stomach of the whlale to rescue him.
The invocation of Prophet Ayyoob (AS): The invocation to cure his disease, which made all his friends, relatives including wife abandoned him.
The invocation of Prophet Yusuf (AS): His beatiful invoation to make him die as a muslim and to enjoin him among the righteous people (Faathirassamaavaathi Wal Ardhi, Antha Waliyyee fiddunyaa Wal Aakhirathi, Tawaffanee Musliman Wa Alhiqnee bissaliheen)
The invocation of Prophet Ibrahim / Abraham (AS): The duaa to accept their good deed of re-constructing Holy Kaaba in Makkah.
Each invocation is a lesson for us. Let us look at the invocation of Prophet Ibrahim, for example.
Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail rebuilt the Holy Kaaba in Makkah. After they completed their hard work they raised their hands to Allah and made this Duaa to accept their good deed. There is a great lesson in this. It is not always enough that we work hard in the cause of Allah. Along with our work there should be a praying heart, which makes the work we did more deeper and stronger.
Duaa is a strong weapon, which is too much under utilized by us. Duaa can change the state of the affairs in totality! See this saying of Prophet (SA): Beware of the duaa of the oppressed! Because there is no partition between their duaa and Allah!
WHAT MORE IS TO BE SAID ABOUT THIS WEAPON?!
Prophet Mohammed (SA) has taught us Duaas for all occassions in life:
- There is Duua when you get up from the bed.
- There is Duua when you go to toilet
- There is Duua when you eat food
- There is Duua when you wear a new dress
- There is Duua when you embark a vehicle
- There is Duua when you start your journey
- There is Duua when you visit a patient
- There is Duua when you go to bed
YES. There is Duaa to make all the occassions more meaningful and powerful.....!
Allah has promised that he will answer all the prayers of his slaves- in any one of the three form of answering and rewarding. (Wa Ida Sa'alaka Ibadee Annee..........Ujeebu Da'watha-dda'i ida da'anee: Quran)
Dua has certain simple priorities:
First priority is to pray for ourselves
Then for our parents and relatives
Then for the whole Ummath, to those who are alive and to those who already started the eternal jouney before us.
Duaa of a good child is one of the great blessing a human being can have even after his death!Remember the saying of Prophet (SA): Only three things remain after the death of person: His good deeds, His charities-which are still delivering, His children who are praying for him!
Similarly there are certain conditions for Duaa to be accepted by Allah:
In one of his saying Prophet (SA) said: Some of you raise the hands and says "Ya Rabb", "Ya Rabb". How can his invocation be answered? What he eats is from forbidden means, what he drinks is from forbidden means, what he wears is from forbidden means.
YES. We must make sure that we are not crossing the boarders, to make sure that our duaas are answered.
Allah has earmarked certain time and space in a bid to give better chances for us to make duaa and make use of them while drive through. For example:
- Duaa after five time compulsory prayers is most recommended.
- Duaa between Adhan and Iqaamath is most recommended.
- Duaa in the state of Wudu is most recommended.
- Duaa in the state of turning towards Qibla is most recommended.
- Duaa during and after Tahjjud prayer is most recommended.
- Duaa after breaking the fast is most recommended.
- Duaa in the month of Ramadaan is most recommended.
- Duaa during the first ten days of Dulhijja is most recommended.
- Duaa while you tavel is most recommended.
Never miss a chance for duaa and zikr (Remembrance and /or Praise to Allah).
Prophet (SA) said: Make use of two words, which are very light for the tongue at the same time very heavy in the 'balance'. Those words are: Subhaanallahi Wabihamdihi Subhanallahil Adheem.
We can make Zikr at any occassions and at any state we are in to. As per Quran, all creatures in the universe are making zikr. How can one keep away from supplication and zikr, except those who are arrogant and having 'hearts harder than stones'. (Like the ones in Quran Chapter -2: Verse -74)
I remember reading Kamala Srayya (Madhavikkutti) once: I have the greatest hope in Allah's promise that He will forgive "ALL SINS" in totality to those who whole-heartedly return back to him.
YES!
What else can make our mind so cool and floating (THE NIRVAANA STATE?) except this promise from Allah!
=======Written from the spirit (Not all text are from the speech) of the speech by Br. Sakeer Farooqi in Jeddah on 11th February 2011.======
Right Brothers invented Aeroplanes ....But!
Right brothers invented aeroplanes, but their family do not own the biggest airline company in the world. Why?
Many a times the one who does the hard work need not win the full fruit in comparison to the successors. Great inventors put lot of efforts in bringing such great inventions to the benefit of humanity.
Quran says: Verily We shall give life to the dead, and We record that which they sent before and that which they leave behind, and of all things have We taken account in a clear Book (of evidence): Chapter 36: Verse -12.
Our deeds, good and bad, go to Allah's judgement Seat before us. They will ofcourse be brought to our account, but our account will also be swelled by the example we left behind us and the consequences of our deeds, that will come in to play or continue to operate after our earthly life has ceased! Our moral and spiritual responsibility is therefore much wider than as affects our own person.
Don't you find this very promising?
Yes....unlike the case of the right brothers mentioned above an good deed of a believer, with good intention, has much greater potential down the line!
NEVER MISS A CHANCE FOR A GOOD DEED WHICH HAS STRUCK ON YOUR WAY.
Many a times the one who does the hard work need not win the full fruit in comparison to the successors. Great inventors put lot of efforts in bringing such great inventions to the benefit of humanity.
Quran says: Verily We shall give life to the dead, and We record that which they sent before and that which they leave behind, and of all things have We taken account in a clear Book (of evidence): Chapter 36: Verse -12.
Our deeds, good and bad, go to Allah's judgement Seat before us. They will ofcourse be brought to our account, but our account will also be swelled by the example we left behind us and the consequences of our deeds, that will come in to play or continue to operate after our earthly life has ceased! Our moral and spiritual responsibility is therefore much wider than as affects our own person.
Don't you find this very promising?
Yes....unlike the case of the right brothers mentioned above an good deed of a believer, with good intention, has much greater potential down the line!
NEVER MISS A CHANCE FOR A GOOD DEED WHICH HAS STRUCK ON YOUR WAY.
An outing with mother after long years.......!
Below text were received from classmate Asokan......Read on:
After 21 years of marriage, my wife wanted me to take another woman out to dinner and a movie.
She said I love you but I know this other woman loves you and would love to spend some time with you.
The other woman that my wife w anted me to visit was my MOTHER, who has been a widow for 19 years, but the demands of my work and my three children had made it possible to visit her only occasionally.
That night I called to invite her to go out for dinner and a movie.
"What's wrong, are you well," she asked? My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a late night call or a sur prise invitation is a sign of bad news.
"I thought that it would be pleasant to be with you," I responded. " Just the two of us."
She thought about it for a moment, and then said, " I would like that very much."
That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I noticed t hat she, too, seemed to be nervous about our date. She waited in the door with her coat on. She had curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary.
She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an angel's.
"I told my friends that I was going to go out with my son, and they were impressed, "she said, as she got into the car. "They can't wait to hear about our meeting".
We went to a restaurant that, although not elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my arm as if she were the First Lady. After we sat down,
I had to read the menu. Large print. Half way through the entries, I lifted my eyes and saw Mom sitting there staring at me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips.
"It was I who used to have to read the menu when you were small," she said.
"Then it's time that you relax and let me return the favor," I responded.
During the dinner, we had an agreeable conversation - nothing extraordinary, but catching up on recent events of each other's life. We talked so much that we missed the movie.
As we arrived at her house later, she said, "I'll go out with you again, but only if you let me invite you." I agreed.
" How was your dinner date ?" asked my wife when I got home. "Very nice. Much more so than I could have imagined," I answered.
A few days later, my mother died of a massive heart attack. It happened so suddenly that I did to do anything for her.
Some time later, I received an envelope with a copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place mother and I had dined.
An attached note said: "I paid this bill in advance. I wasn't sure that I could be there; but nevertheless, I paid for two plates - one for you and the other for your wife. You will never know what that night meant for me. I love you, son."
At that moment, I understood the importance of saying in time: " I LOVE YOU!" and to give our loved ones the time that they deserve.
Nothing in life is more important than God and your family. Give them the time they deserve, because these things cannot be put off till "some other time."
Pass this along to everyone with an aging parent, to a child, to an adult, to anyone with a parent. Here's hoping today is better than yesterday and tomorrow.
After 21 years of marriage, my wife wanted me to take another woman out to dinner and a movie.
She said I love you but I know this other woman loves you and would love to spend some time with you.
The other woman that my wife w anted me to visit was my MOTHER, who has been a widow for 19 years, but the demands of my work and my three children had made it possible to visit her only occasionally.
That night I called to invite her to go out for dinner and a movie.
"What's wrong, are you well," she asked? My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a late night call or a sur prise invitation is a sign of bad news.
"I thought that it would be pleasant to be with you," I responded. " Just the two of us."
She thought about it for a moment, and then said, " I would like that very much."
That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I noticed t hat she, too, seemed to be nervous about our date. She waited in the door with her coat on. She had curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary.
She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an angel's.
"I told my friends that I was going to go out with my son, and they were impressed, "she said, as she got into the car. "They can't wait to hear about our meeting".
We went to a restaurant that, although not elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my arm as if she were the First Lady. After we sat down,
I had to read the menu. Large print. Half way through the entries, I lifted my eyes and saw Mom sitting there staring at me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips.
"It was I who used to have to read the menu when you were small," she said.
"Then it's time that you relax and let me return the favor," I responded.
During the dinner, we had an agreeable conversation - nothing extraordinary, but catching up on recent events of each other's life. We talked so much that we missed the movie.
As we arrived at her house later, she said, "I'll go out with you again, but only if you let me invite you." I agreed.
" How was your dinner date ?" asked my wife when I got home. "Very nice. Much more so than I could have imagined," I answered.
A few days later, my mother died of a massive heart attack. It happened so suddenly that I did to do anything for her.
Some time later, I received an envelope with a copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place mother and I had dined.
An attached note said: "I paid this bill in advance. I wasn't sure that I could be there; but nevertheless, I paid for two plates - one for you and the other for your wife. You will never know what that night meant for me. I love you, son."
At that moment, I understood the importance of saying in time: " I LOVE YOU!" and to give our loved ones the time that they deserve.
Nothing in life is more important than God and your family. Give them the time they deserve, because these things cannot be put off till "some other time."
Pass this along to everyone with an aging parent, to a child, to an adult, to anyone with a parent. Here's hoping today is better than yesterday and tomorrow.
Good Samaritan
Yesterday evening my son came with an email printout signed and distributed by the principal of International Indian School Jeddah, Mr. Masood Ahmed among the students.
It was a very interesting reading for me as well. I searched for the source for this article and found it to share with you all here.
The source of this article is here
Read and pass it on to others. It will definitely have some positive impulse on all readers.
-:GOOD SAMARITAN:-
One act of kindness that befell British writer Bernard Hare in 1982 changed him profoundly. Then a student living just north of London, he tells the story to inspire troubled young people to help deal with their disrupted lives.
The police called at my student hovel early evening, but I didn't answer as I thought they'd come to evict me. I hadn't paid my rent in months.
But then I got to thinking: my mum hadn't been too good and what if it was something about her?
We had no phone in the hovel and mobiles hadn't been invented yet, so I had to nip down the phone box.
I rang home to Leeds to find my mother was in hospital and not expected to survive the night. "Get home, son," my dad said.
I got to the railway station to find I'd missed the last train. A train was going as far as Peterborough, but I would miss the connecting Leeds train by twenty minutes.
I bought a ticket home and got on anyway. I was a struggling student and didn't have the money for a taxi the whole way, but I had a screwdriver in my pocket and my bunch of skeleton keys.
I was so desperate to get home that I planned to nick a car in Peterborough, hitch hike, steal some money, something, anything. I just knew from my dad's tone of voice that my mother was going to die that night and I intended to get home if it killed me.
"Tickets, please," I heard, as I stared blankly out of the window at the passing darkness. I fumbled for my ticket and gave it to the guard when he approached. He stamped it, but then just stood there looking at me. I'd been crying, had red eyes and must have looked a fright.
"You okay?" he asked.
"Course I'm okay," I said. "Why wouldn't I be? And what's it got to do with you in any case?"
"You look awful," he said. "Is there anything I can do?"
"You could get lost and mind your own business," I said. "That'd be a big help." I wasn't in the mood for talking.
He was only a little bloke and he must have read the danger signals in my body language and tone of voice, but he sat down opposite me anyway and continued to engage me.
"If there's a problem, I'm here to help. That's what I'm paid for."
I was a big bloke in my prime, so I thought for a second about physically sending him on his way, but somehow it didn't seem appropriate. He wasn't really doing much wrong. I was going through all the stages of grief at once: denial, anger, guilt, withdrawal, everything but acceptance. I was a bubbling cauldron of emotion and he had placed himself in my line of fire.
The only other thing I could think of to get rid of him was to tell him my story.
"Look, my mum's in hospital, dying, she won't survive the night, I'm going to miss the connection to Leeds at Peterborough, I'm not sure how I'm going to get home.
"It's tonight or never, I won't get another chance, I'm a bit upset, I don't really feel like talking, I'd be grateful if you'd leave me alone. Okay?"
"Okay," he said, finally getting up. "Sorry to hear that, son. I'll leave you alone then. Hope you make it home in time." Then he wandered off down the carriage back the way he came.
I continued to look out of the window at the dark. Ten minutes later, he was back at the side of my table. Oh no, I thought, here we go again. This time I really am going to rag him down the train.
He touched my arm. "Listen, when we get to Peterborough, shoot straight over to Platform One as quick as you like. The Leeds train'll be there."
I looked at him dumbfounded. It wasn't really registering. "Come again," I said, stupidly. "What do you mean? Is it late, or something?"
"No, it isn't late," he said, defensively, as if he really cared whether trains were late or not. "No, I've just radioed Peterborough. They're going to hold the train up for you. As soon as you get on, it goes.
"Everyone will be complaining about how late it is, but let's not worry about that on this occasion. You'll get home and that's the main thing. Good luck and God bless."
Then he was off down the train again. "Tickets, please. Any more tickets now?"
I suddenly realised what a top-class, fully-fledged doilem I was and chased him down the train. I wanted to give him all the money from my wallet, my driver's licence, my keys, but I knew he would be offended.
I caught him up and grabbed his arm. "Oh, er, I just wanted to…" I was suddenly speechless. "I, erm…"
Bernard was desperate to see his mother, Joyce
"It's okay," he said. "Not a problem." He had a warm smile on his face and true compassion in his eyes. He was a good man for its own sake and required nothing in return.
"I wish I had some way to thank you," I said. "I appreciate what you've done."
"Not a problem," he said again. "If you feel the need to thank me, the next time you see someone in trouble, you help them out. That will pay me back amply.
"Tell them to pay you back the same way and soon the world will be a better place."
I was at my mother's side when she died in the early hours of the morning. Even now, I can't think of her without remembering the Good Conductor on that late-night train to Peterborough and, to this day, I won't hear a bad word said about British Rail.
My meeting with the Good Conductor changed me from a selfish, potentially violent hedonist into a decent human being, but it took time.
"I've paid him back a thousand times since then," I tell the young people I work with, "and I'll keep on doing so till the day I die. You don't owe me nothing. Nothing at all."
"And if you think you do, I'd give you the same advice the Good Conductor gave me. Pass it down the line."
It was a very interesting reading for me as well. I searched for the source for this article and found it to share with you all here.
The source of this article is here
Read and pass it on to others. It will definitely have some positive impulse on all readers.
-:GOOD SAMARITAN:-
One act of kindness that befell British writer Bernard Hare in 1982 changed him profoundly. Then a student living just north of London, he tells the story to inspire troubled young people to help deal with their disrupted lives.
The police called at my student hovel early evening, but I didn't answer as I thought they'd come to evict me. I hadn't paid my rent in months.
But then I got to thinking: my mum hadn't been too good and what if it was something about her?
We had no phone in the hovel and mobiles hadn't been invented yet, so I had to nip down the phone box.
I rang home to Leeds to find my mother was in hospital and not expected to survive the night. "Get home, son," my dad said.
I got to the railway station to find I'd missed the last train. A train was going as far as Peterborough, but I would miss the connecting Leeds train by twenty minutes.
I bought a ticket home and got on anyway. I was a struggling student and didn't have the money for a taxi the whole way, but I had a screwdriver in my pocket and my bunch of skeleton keys.
I was so desperate to get home that I planned to nick a car in Peterborough, hitch hike, steal some money, something, anything. I just knew from my dad's tone of voice that my mother was going to die that night and I intended to get home if it killed me.
"Tickets, please," I heard, as I stared blankly out of the window at the passing darkness. I fumbled for my ticket and gave it to the guard when he approached. He stamped it, but then just stood there looking at me. I'd been crying, had red eyes and must have looked a fright.
"You okay?" he asked.
"Course I'm okay," I said. "Why wouldn't I be? And what's it got to do with you in any case?"
"You look awful," he said. "Is there anything I can do?"
"You could get lost and mind your own business," I said. "That'd be a big help." I wasn't in the mood for talking.
He was only a little bloke and he must have read the danger signals in my body language and tone of voice, but he sat down opposite me anyway and continued to engage me.
"If there's a problem, I'm here to help. That's what I'm paid for."
I was a big bloke in my prime, so I thought for a second about physically sending him on his way, but somehow it didn't seem appropriate. He wasn't really doing much wrong. I was going through all the stages of grief at once: denial, anger, guilt, withdrawal, everything but acceptance. I was a bubbling cauldron of emotion and he had placed himself in my line of fire.
The only other thing I could think of to get rid of him was to tell him my story.
"Look, my mum's in hospital, dying, she won't survive the night, I'm going to miss the connection to Leeds at Peterborough, I'm not sure how I'm going to get home.
"It's tonight or never, I won't get another chance, I'm a bit upset, I don't really feel like talking, I'd be grateful if you'd leave me alone. Okay?"
"Okay," he said, finally getting up. "Sorry to hear that, son. I'll leave you alone then. Hope you make it home in time." Then he wandered off down the carriage back the way he came.
I continued to look out of the window at the dark. Ten minutes later, he was back at the side of my table. Oh no, I thought, here we go again. This time I really am going to rag him down the train.
He touched my arm. "Listen, when we get to Peterborough, shoot straight over to Platform One as quick as you like. The Leeds train'll be there."
I looked at him dumbfounded. It wasn't really registering. "Come again," I said, stupidly. "What do you mean? Is it late, or something?"
"No, it isn't late," he said, defensively, as if he really cared whether trains were late or not. "No, I've just radioed Peterborough. They're going to hold the train up for you. As soon as you get on, it goes.
"Everyone will be complaining about how late it is, but let's not worry about that on this occasion. You'll get home and that's the main thing. Good luck and God bless."
Then he was off down the train again. "Tickets, please. Any more tickets now?"
I suddenly realised what a top-class, fully-fledged doilem I was and chased him down the train. I wanted to give him all the money from my wallet, my driver's licence, my keys, but I knew he would be offended.
I caught him up and grabbed his arm. "Oh, er, I just wanted to…" I was suddenly speechless. "I, erm…"
Bernard was desperate to see his mother, Joyce
"It's okay," he said. "Not a problem." He had a warm smile on his face and true compassion in his eyes. He was a good man for its own sake and required nothing in return.
"I wish I had some way to thank you," I said. "I appreciate what you've done."
"Not a problem," he said again. "If you feel the need to thank me, the next time you see someone in trouble, you help them out. That will pay me back amply.
"Tell them to pay you back the same way and soon the world will be a better place."
I was at my mother's side when she died in the early hours of the morning. Even now, I can't think of her without remembering the Good Conductor on that late-night train to Peterborough and, to this day, I won't hear a bad word said about British Rail.
My meeting with the Good Conductor changed me from a selfish, potentially violent hedonist into a decent human being, but it took time.
"I've paid him back a thousand times since then," I tell the young people I work with, "and I'll keep on doing so till the day I die. You don't owe me nothing. Nothing at all."
"And if you think you do, I'd give you the same advice the Good Conductor gave me. Pass it down the line."
Parents
Assalamu Alikum
As promised in my earlier post
Appreciation
let me try to pen down few lines on the Islamic perspective on Parents - Children relationship.
After my post we in Kerala were destined to read the worst ever case where an old mother neglected by a new generation daughter was attacked by worms! If you are a Malayali it is worth reading the blog bost about it here Old is NOT Gold
As per a hadees(saying) from Prophet Mohammed (SA) kindness to parents is the second most loved deed in the sight of Allah (Almighty God), after Salat(5 times obligatory prayer in Islam) at its proper time!
"And we have enjoined on man to be good and dutifull to his parents" (Quran Chapter 29, Verse -8)
"And your Rabb has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutifull to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: "My Rabb! bestow on them your mercy as they did bring me up when I was young" (Quran Chapter 31, Verse -14)
"Worship Allah and join none with him (in worship); and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, the poor, the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those (slaves) whom your right hands possess (Quran Chapter 4, Verse -36)
Here is another beautifull Hadees(saying) from prophet (SA) about the importance of Mother over all others.
Abu Hurairah (RA, the companion of Prophet Mohammed (SA)reported:
A person came to Allah's messenger (SA) and asked, "Who among people is most deserving my fine treatment?" He(SA) said, "Your Mother". He again asked "Who next?". "Your Mother" the prophet (SA) replied again. He asked "who next?". He (Prophet SA) said again, "Your Mother". He again asked, "Then Who?" Thereupon he (SA) said "Then your Father". (Al Bukhari and Muslim).
This is the respect each woman as mother is eligible to get in an Islamic environment. What to say about "the modern daughter" who throw her mother to the worms!!!
The daughter is a MCA graduate and working in a good position in a government firm. She used to appear in a good TV program earlier named "Old is gold!". Such stories should open the eyes of all concerned in sustainable human development.
Man will not feel until he gets affected directly.
When you read daily about road accidents, does it move your mind?
When you read the warnings about global warming, does it really bother you?
This is the problem with general human mind set, he don't normally care until it hits home. Until someone dear and near to us gets hit we never bother.
Such stories reminds us again and again the importance of the wisdom given to us by the last Prophet Mohammed (SA) and the last veda to humanity "holy Quran".
"My Rabb! bestow on my parents your mercy as they did bring me up when I was young"
As promised in my earlier post
Appreciation
let me try to pen down few lines on the Islamic perspective on Parents - Children relationship.
After my post we in Kerala were destined to read the worst ever case where an old mother neglected by a new generation daughter was attacked by worms! If you are a Malayali it is worth reading the blog bost about it here Old is NOT Gold
As per a hadees(saying) from Prophet Mohammed (SA) kindness to parents is the second most loved deed in the sight of Allah (Almighty God), after Salat(5 times obligatory prayer in Islam) at its proper time!
"And we have enjoined on man to be good and dutifull to his parents" (Quran Chapter 29, Verse -8)
"And your Rabb has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutifull to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: "My Rabb! bestow on them your mercy as they did bring me up when I was young" (Quran Chapter 31, Verse -14)
"Worship Allah and join none with him (in worship); and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, the poor, the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those (slaves) whom your right hands possess (Quran Chapter 4, Verse -36)
Here is another beautifull Hadees(saying) from prophet (SA) about the importance of Mother over all others.
Abu Hurairah (RA, the companion of Prophet Mohammed (SA)reported:
A person came to Allah's messenger (SA) and asked, "Who among people is most deserving my fine treatment?" He(SA) said, "Your Mother". He again asked "Who next?". "Your Mother" the prophet (SA) replied again. He asked "who next?". He (Prophet SA) said again, "Your Mother". He again asked, "Then Who?" Thereupon he (SA) said "Then your Father". (Al Bukhari and Muslim).
This is the respect each woman as mother is eligible to get in an Islamic environment. What to say about "the modern daughter" who throw her mother to the worms!!!
The daughter is a MCA graduate and working in a good position in a government firm. She used to appear in a good TV program earlier named "Old is gold!". Such stories should open the eyes of all concerned in sustainable human development.
Man will not feel until he gets affected directly.
When you read daily about road accidents, does it move your mind?
When you read the warnings about global warming, does it really bother you?
This is the problem with general human mind set, he don't normally care until it hits home. Until someone dear and near to us gets hit we never bother.
Such stories reminds us again and again the importance of the wisdom given to us by the last Prophet Mohammed (SA) and the last veda to humanity "holy Quran".
"My Rabb! bestow on my parents your mercy as they did bring me up when I was young"
Appreciation / Parents and Children
This is a powerful message for our modern society. We seem to have lost our bearing & our sense of direction.
One young academically excellent person went to apply for a managerial position in a big company.
He passed the first interview; the director did the last interview.
The director discovered from the CV that the youth's academic achievements were excellent all the way, from the secondary school until the postgraduate research, never had a year when he did not score.
The director asked, "Did you obtain any scholarships in school?"
The youth answered "none".
The director asked, "Was it your father who paid for your school fees?"
The youth answered, "My father passed away when I was one year old, it was my mother who paid for my school fees.
The director asked, "Where did your mother work?"
The youth answered, "My mother worked as laundry woman.
The director requested the youth to show his hands.
The youth showed a pair of hands that were smooth and perfect.
The director asked, "Have you ever helped your mother wash the clothes before?"
The youth answered, "Never, my mother always wanted me to study and read more books. Furthermore, my mother can wash clothes faster than me.
The director said, "I have a request. “When you go back today, go and clean your mother's hands, and then see me tomorrow morning.”
The youth felt that his chance of landing the job was high. When he went back, he happily requested his mother to let him clean her hands.
His mother felt strange, happy but with mixed feelings, she showed her hands to the young man.
The youth cleaned his mother's hands slowly. His tear fell as he did that. It was the first time he noticed that his mother's hands were so wrinkled, and there were so many bruises in her hands. Some bruises were so painful that his mother shivered when they were cleaned with water.
This was the first time the youth realized that it was this pair of hands that washed the clothes everyday to enable him to pay the school fee. The bruises in the mother's hands were the price that the mother had to pay for his graduation, academic excellence and his future.
After finishing the cleaning of his mother’s hands, the youth quietly washed all the remaining clothes for his mother.
That night, mother and son talked for a very long time.
Next morning, the youth went to the director's office.
The Director noticed the tears in the youth's eyes, asked: "Can you tell me what have you done and learned yesterday in your house?"
The youth answered, "I cleaned my mother's hand, and also finished cleaning all the remaining clothes'
The Director asked, "Please tell me your feelings."
The youth said:
1. I know now what appreciation is. Without my mother, there would not have been the successful me today.
2. By working together and helping my mother, only I now realize how difficult and tough it is to get something done.
3. I have come to appreciate the importance and value of family relationships.
The director said, "This is what I am looking for to be my manager.
I want to recruit a person who can appreciate the help of others, a person who knows the sufferings of others to get things done, and a person who would not put money as his only goal in life. You are hired.
Later on, this young person worked very hard, and received the respect of his subordinates. Every employee worked diligently and as a team. The company's performance improved tremendously.
A child, who has been protected and habitually given whatever he wanted, would develop "entitlement mentality" and would always put him self first. He would be ignorant of his parent's efforts. When he starts work, he assumes that every person must listen to him, and when he becomes a manager, he would never know the sufferings of his employees and would always blame others. For this kind of a person, who may be good academically, may be successful for a while, but eventually would not feel sense of achievement. He will grumble and be full of hatred and fight for more. If we are this kind of protective parents, are we really showing love or are we destroying the children instead?*
You can let your children live in a big house, eat a good meal, learn piano, watch a big screen TV. But when you are cutting grass, please let them experience it. After a meal, let them wash their plates and bowls together with their brothers and sisters. It is not because you do not have money to hire a maid, you want them to understand, no matter how rich their parents are, one day their hair will grow gray, same as the mother of that young person. The most important thing is your children learn how to appreciate the effort and experience the difficulty and learn how to work with others to get things done.
Courtsey Br. Sabeel Saleem for sending the text by email.
Now read what Khalil Gibran wrote about children here:
http://gatesandwindows.blogspot.com/2010/12/your-children-are-not-your-children.html
I think this has gone too long. Wait a little for my next post about the Islamic perspective on the relation with Parents and Children.
One young academically excellent person went to apply for a managerial position in a big company.
He passed the first interview; the director did the last interview.
The director discovered from the CV that the youth's academic achievements were excellent all the way, from the secondary school until the postgraduate research, never had a year when he did not score.
The director asked, "Did you obtain any scholarships in school?"
The youth answered "none".
The director asked, "Was it your father who paid for your school fees?"
The youth answered, "My father passed away when I was one year old, it was my mother who paid for my school fees.
The director asked, "Where did your mother work?"
The youth answered, "My mother worked as laundry woman.
The director requested the youth to show his hands.
The youth showed a pair of hands that were smooth and perfect.
The director asked, "Have you ever helped your mother wash the clothes before?"
The youth answered, "Never, my mother always wanted me to study and read more books. Furthermore, my mother can wash clothes faster than me.
The director said, "I have a request. “When you go back today, go and clean your mother's hands, and then see me tomorrow morning.”
The youth felt that his chance of landing the job was high. When he went back, he happily requested his mother to let him clean her hands.
His mother felt strange, happy but with mixed feelings, she showed her hands to the young man.
The youth cleaned his mother's hands slowly. His tear fell as he did that. It was the first time he noticed that his mother's hands were so wrinkled, and there were so many bruises in her hands. Some bruises were so painful that his mother shivered when they were cleaned with water.
This was the first time the youth realized that it was this pair of hands that washed the clothes everyday to enable him to pay the school fee. The bruises in the mother's hands were the price that the mother had to pay for his graduation, academic excellence and his future.
After finishing the cleaning of his mother’s hands, the youth quietly washed all the remaining clothes for his mother.
That night, mother and son talked for a very long time.
Next morning, the youth went to the director's office.
The Director noticed the tears in the youth's eyes, asked: "Can you tell me what have you done and learned yesterday in your house?"
The youth answered, "I cleaned my mother's hand, and also finished cleaning all the remaining clothes'
The Director asked, "Please tell me your feelings."
The youth said:
1. I know now what appreciation is. Without my mother, there would not have been the successful me today.
2. By working together and helping my mother, only I now realize how difficult and tough it is to get something done.
3. I have come to appreciate the importance and value of family relationships.
The director said, "This is what I am looking for to be my manager.
I want to recruit a person who can appreciate the help of others, a person who knows the sufferings of others to get things done, and a person who would not put money as his only goal in life. You are hired.
Later on, this young person worked very hard, and received the respect of his subordinates. Every employee worked diligently and as a team. The company's performance improved tremendously.
A child, who has been protected and habitually given whatever he wanted, would develop "entitlement mentality" and would always put him self first. He would be ignorant of his parent's efforts. When he starts work, he assumes that every person must listen to him, and when he becomes a manager, he would never know the sufferings of his employees and would always blame others. For this kind of a person, who may be good academically, may be successful for a while, but eventually would not feel sense of achievement. He will grumble and be full of hatred and fight for more. If we are this kind of protective parents, are we really showing love or are we destroying the children instead?*
You can let your children live in a big house, eat a good meal, learn piano, watch a big screen TV. But when you are cutting grass, please let them experience it. After a meal, let them wash their plates and bowls together with their brothers and sisters. It is not because you do not have money to hire a maid, you want them to understand, no matter how rich their parents are, one day their hair will grow gray, same as the mother of that young person. The most important thing is your children learn how to appreciate the effort and experience the difficulty and learn how to work with others to get things done.
Courtsey Br. Sabeel Saleem for sending the text by email.
Now read what Khalil Gibran wrote about children here:
http://gatesandwindows.blogspot.com/2010/12/your-children-are-not-your-children.html
I think this has gone too long. Wait a little for my next post about the Islamic perspective on the relation with Parents and Children.
Onthe door step of Hijri year 1432 - Another reminder of time
Today it is the 27th day of month Dul-Hijja, the last friday in this Hajri calender year 1431. Just three days remaning to start the new year 1432H.
Year 1431Hijri:
- 12 months
- 52 Weeks
- 360 days
- 864 hours
- 518, 400 Minutes
- 31, 104,000 seconds
How did we spent this 31 million seconds?
The big question is that how many seconds we have made as investment for our future life? The real life after death?
Many of these were special days, hours and seconds.
Month of Ramadan : 2,592,000 seconds
52 fridays: 4,492,800 seconds
10 days in the month of Dul hijja: 864,000 seconds
Several other special days (as listed below) each day with 86,400 seconds:
- Fasting day on 9th and 10th of the month of Muharram
- Fasting day on 9th of the month of Dul hijja (Arafa day)
- six fasting days in the month of Shawwal
- weekly fasting days of mondays and thursdays
- Middle three days of fasting on each month (14th, 15th and 16th)
Allah marks every good deed with atleast 10 rewards against it. The reward may rise up to 700 times and even unlimited times like in the case of the reward for fasting in Ramadan.
The alloted time in this life is limited for each one of us. As Vaikkam Mohammed Basheer, the great writer of Kerala said,
അല്ലാഹുവിന്റെ ഖജനാവിലാണ് അനനദമായ സമയമുള്ളത് (Eternal storage of TIME is in the custody of Allah). The success of a human being lies in making the best out of this limited time allotment.
Prophet Moahmmed (SA) said: (Addunyaa Mazraatul Alkhira) The life in this world is a farm land for riping in the life after death. Yes, the winner in the life after death will be the smart "farmer" in this world!
At the closure of an year it is a good practice to make a balance sheet for the past year and to make a year plan for the coming year.
Lost time can never be caught again. Future is not certain. The trick of success is to engage in the present! to live in the present. Make use of each moment before it drops!
Never fail to make the best use of the time.
- The ONE who is in the sky will be mercifull to those who show mercy to those in the earth.
- The parable of a good word (Divine message - the true religion) is like a good tree whose root is firmly fixed and its branches (reach) to the sky. It brings forth its fruit at all times, by the leave of its Lord. (Quran:14: 24&25.
Try to fill each moment with some virtue.
It is not hard. Once you practice it becomes and enjoyment.
- Witness the word (Kalima) and practice your life accordingly.
- Make your time filled with the praise of God (Five time prayer, reciting Salath on Prophet (SA), Other supplications, Reading Quran, Making Tasbeeh, Tahmmed and Takbeer,....its easy while you work, walk, standing, sitting or lying!.......wherever you be engaged!)
- Share and give whatever you have and whatever you know. (Of wealth) give both compulsory part and Sadaka. Even making a smile at your brother is a Sadaka!!!....yes it is easy when you start practicing.
- Observe fasting, one of the most strong tool for tazkiya (Self purification). In addition to the compulsory fasting during the month of Ramadan strong (successful) muslims did observe fasting on so many other days of the year as mentioned above.
- Perform pilgrimages as and when one is physically, psycologically and financially fit.
- Even the removal obstacles from the street is counted by Prophet Moahmmed (SA) as part of Iman (Fundamental Beliefs Islam).
- Enjoin in all what is good and disengage from all what is bad and evil (Quran says: Taawanoo Alal Birri Wattaqwa wala Taawanoo Alal Ithmi Wal O'dwaan)
Start planning for the year 1432H. Aim the star (Jannatul Firdous), you can reach the moon (atleast). Remeber the words of Prophet (SA) that the least facilities given in Janna (paradise) is better than the facilities available with a mighty king in this world!
Prepared from the spirit of the Friday khutba (Speech) I attended today in Jeddah.
Year 1431Hijri:
- 12 months
- 52 Weeks
- 360 days
- 864 hours
- 518, 400 Minutes
- 31, 104,000 seconds
How did we spent this 31 million seconds?
The big question is that how many seconds we have made as investment for our future life? The real life after death?
Many of these were special days, hours and seconds.
Month of Ramadan : 2,592,000 seconds
52 fridays: 4,492,800 seconds
10 days in the month of Dul hijja: 864,000 seconds
Several other special days (as listed below) each day with 86,400 seconds:
- Fasting day on 9th and 10th of the month of Muharram
- Fasting day on 9th of the month of Dul hijja (Arafa day)
- six fasting days in the month of Shawwal
- weekly fasting days of mondays and thursdays
- Middle three days of fasting on each month (14th, 15th and 16th)
Allah marks every good deed with atleast 10 rewards against it. The reward may rise up to 700 times and even unlimited times like in the case of the reward for fasting in Ramadan.
The alloted time in this life is limited for each one of us. As Vaikkam Mohammed Basheer, the great writer of Kerala said,
അല്ലാഹുവിന്റെ ഖജനാവിലാണ് അനനദമായ സമയമുള്ളത് (Eternal storage of TIME is in the custody of Allah). The success of a human being lies in making the best out of this limited time allotment.
Prophet Moahmmed (SA) said: (Addunyaa Mazraatul Alkhira) The life in this world is a farm land for riping in the life after death. Yes, the winner in the life after death will be the smart "farmer" in this world!
At the closure of an year it is a good practice to make a balance sheet for the past year and to make a year plan for the coming year.
Lost time can never be caught again. Future is not certain. The trick of success is to engage in the present! to live in the present. Make use of each moment before it drops!
Never fail to make the best use of the time.
- The ONE who is in the sky will be mercifull to those who show mercy to those in the earth.
- The parable of a good word (Divine message - the true religion) is like a good tree whose root is firmly fixed and its branches (reach) to the sky. It brings forth its fruit at all times, by the leave of its Lord. (Quran:14: 24&25.
Try to fill each moment with some virtue.
It is not hard. Once you practice it becomes and enjoyment.
- Witness the word (Kalima) and practice your life accordingly.
- Make your time filled with the praise of God (Five time prayer, reciting Salath on Prophet (SA), Other supplications, Reading Quran, Making Tasbeeh, Tahmmed and Takbeer,....its easy while you work, walk, standing, sitting or lying!.......wherever you be engaged!)
- Share and give whatever you have and whatever you know. (Of wealth) give both compulsory part and Sadaka. Even making a smile at your brother is a Sadaka!!!....yes it is easy when you start practicing.
- Observe fasting, one of the most strong tool for tazkiya (Self purification). In addition to the compulsory fasting during the month of Ramadan strong (successful) muslims did observe fasting on so many other days of the year as mentioned above.
- Perform pilgrimages as and when one is physically, psycologically and financially fit.
- Even the removal obstacles from the street is counted by Prophet Moahmmed (SA) as part of Iman (Fundamental Beliefs Islam).
- Enjoin in all what is good and disengage from all what is bad and evil (Quran says: Taawanoo Alal Birri Wattaqwa wala Taawanoo Alal Ithmi Wal O'dwaan)
Start planning for the year 1432H. Aim the star (Jannatul Firdous), you can reach the moon (atleast). Remeber the words of Prophet (SA) that the least facilities given in Janna (paradise) is better than the facilities available with a mighty king in this world!
Prepared from the spirit of the Friday khutba (Speech) I attended today in Jeddah.
Irish Bailout
It is a slow day in a damp little Irish town. The rain is beating down and the streets are deserted. Times are tough, everybody is in debt, and everybody lives on credit. On this particular day a rich German tourist is driving through the town, stops at the local hotel and lays a €100 note on the desk, telling the hotel owner he wants to inspect the rooms upstairs in order to pick one to spend the night. The owner gives him some keys and, as soon as the visitor has walked upstairs, the hotelier grabs the €100 note and runs next door to pay his debt to the butcher. The butcher takes the €100 note and runs down the street to repay his debt to the pig farmer. The pig farmer takes the €100 note and heads off to pay his bill at the supplier of feed and fuel. The guy at the Farmers' Co-op takes the €100 note and runs to pay his drinks bill at the pub. The publican slips the money along to the local prostitute drinking at the bar, who has also been facing hard times and has had to offer him "services" on credit. The hooker then rushes to the hotel and pays off her room bill to the hotel owner with the €100 note. The hotel proprietor then places the €100 note back on the counter so the rich traveller will not suspect anything. At that moment the traveller comes down the stairs, picks up the €100 note, states that the rooms are not satisfactory, pockets the money, and leaves town. No one produced anything. No one earned anything. However, the whole town is now out of debt and looking to the future with a lot more optimism. And that, Ladies and Gentlemen, is how the bailout package works.
"Thanks to Mr. Rajiv Jaggi for sending this by email".
Can anyone say what went wrong in this?
Quran Says: Oh! you who believe. Do not eat your wealth among yourself unlawfully. (Without a satisfied deal between parties involved)
"Thanks to Mr. Rajiv Jaggi for sending this by email".
Can anyone say what went wrong in this?
Quran Says: Oh! you who believe. Do not eat your wealth among yourself unlawfully. (Without a satisfied deal between parties involved)
Are they not pondering deeply on Quran?
Today I attended the weekly Quran Learning School (QLS) class.
It was my thought earlier to record these classes because each class is a never repeating spiritual experience -a journey. Now since I have started the blog I might try to share some of these experiences - Insha Allah.
I am aware of my limitations: Lack of understanding, poor language etc. Please bear with me.
Today the class was on just five short verses from Chapter -50 (verses 36 to 40).
We went through several interesting discussions. It is my try below to list some of the discussions to the extend I could:
- Were the earlier generations stronger than the present generation? How strong were they and in what? The wonders of ester generations like Taj Mahal, Kutub Minar, the Pyramid, the expeditions, ….! They were powerfull indeed!
- Importance of giving ear to true messages. Listening and hearing: a big topic which can not be covered in a blog space! Successfull is the one who listen to everything and follow the best among them.
- The creation of the universe in six stages. The meaning of the word “Yaum” and the different ways it is used in Quran. The concept of time in this world. The day we count is only meaningful after the creation of earth and sun. And it will be valid only until “Yaumul Qiyama” or until THE TIME.
- The difference in concept between the usage of "YAUM - day"in Bible and Quran. Bible talks about the 7th rest day. But Quran says in Chapter 55 verse 29 “….Everyday in (new) splendour/work does He (shine)". The concept of rest is not attributable to Allah. Rest is for His creatures. Sura Naba talks about the way he arranged night (and sleep) as a rest time for mankind. And in Chapter luqman Allah says that creation and recreation of the whole mankind is similar to task of creating one single soul! His mode of creation is the key word “KUN” meaning “Be” SO IT IS!
- Allah is introduced in Quran in chapter 59 verse 24 as one SINGLE ENTITY - when it comes to Srishti, Paripalanam and Samharam: “He is Allah, the Creator, the evolver, the bestower of Forms……”. Unlike mankind where they construct a building with the involvement of so many individuals like engineers, technitians, laborers, equipment……..yes they need rest but not Allah who just create with the key “KUN"
- The wonderfull way in which Allah ask people to seek peace of mind by neglecting all what others say with patience. (Be it insult/humiliation/false statements/allegations/branding as extremists etc.). See what Allah says : Chapter 50 verse -39: “Bear, then, with patiene all that they say and celebrate the praise of Lord, before the rising of the sun and before (its) setting”. Prophet Yunus (A.S) used to praise Allah a lot and he was able to escape from the stomach of the whale….Yes it is Allah’s promise that He will not leave those do lot of Zikr. The power one can imbibe by saying "SUBHANALLAH" with full presence of heart can not be achieved by no other means! Always remember the two soft words for toung but heavy in the balance of virtues in the life after death: "Subhanallahi Wabihamdihi Subhanallahil Adheem".
- The function of heart and brain:
When you say, my heart is broken …where do you feel it?
In Malayalam we say “Hrudayam tagarnnu poyi”.
The mentioning in Quran which says ”the hearts in their chest are blind….”
Are these statements just linguistic usages or do they have real meaning?
- The three similar verses which says “They have ears but they don’t hear(or listen?)with it”; “They have eyes but they don’t see with it”; “They have hearts but they don’t ponder with it”.
Where is mind? What is its relation with the heart?
Let me pause here with the last three questions for you all to comment in the comments column.
Foot Note:
Those in Jeddah: Kindly invited to attend these weekly classes in Islamic Education Foundation – in Mushrifa district.
Others: Seek the depth of Quran by all available means. It is the message to mankind. Yes to each individual of us from the Creator!
It was my thought earlier to record these classes because each class is a never repeating spiritual experience -a journey. Now since I have started the blog I might try to share some of these experiences - Insha Allah.
I am aware of my limitations: Lack of understanding, poor language etc. Please bear with me.
Today the class was on just five short verses from Chapter -50 (verses 36 to 40).
We went through several interesting discussions. It is my try below to list some of the discussions to the extend I could:
- Were the earlier generations stronger than the present generation? How strong were they and in what? The wonders of ester generations like Taj Mahal, Kutub Minar, the Pyramid, the expeditions, ….! They were powerfull indeed!
- Importance of giving ear to true messages. Listening and hearing: a big topic which can not be covered in a blog space! Successfull is the one who listen to everything and follow the best among them.
- The creation of the universe in six stages. The meaning of the word “Yaum” and the different ways it is used in Quran. The concept of time in this world. The day we count is only meaningful after the creation of earth and sun. And it will be valid only until “Yaumul Qiyama” or until THE TIME.
- The difference in concept between the usage of "YAUM - day"in Bible and Quran. Bible talks about the 7th rest day. But Quran says in Chapter 55 verse 29 “….Everyday in (new) splendour/work does He (shine)". The concept of rest is not attributable to Allah. Rest is for His creatures. Sura Naba talks about the way he arranged night (and sleep) as a rest time for mankind. And in Chapter luqman Allah says that creation and recreation of the whole mankind is similar to task of creating one single soul! His mode of creation is the key word “KUN” meaning “Be” SO IT IS!
- Allah is introduced in Quran in chapter 59 verse 24 as one SINGLE ENTITY - when it comes to Srishti, Paripalanam and Samharam: “He is Allah, the Creator, the evolver, the bestower of Forms……”. Unlike mankind where they construct a building with the involvement of so many individuals like engineers, technitians, laborers, equipment……..yes they need rest but not Allah who just create with the key “KUN"
- The wonderfull way in which Allah ask people to seek peace of mind by neglecting all what others say with patience. (Be it insult/humiliation/false statements/allegations/branding as extremists etc.). See what Allah says : Chapter 50 verse -39: “Bear, then, with patiene all that they say and celebrate the praise of Lord, before the rising of the sun and before (its) setting”. Prophet Yunus (A.S) used to praise Allah a lot and he was able to escape from the stomach of the whale….Yes it is Allah’s promise that He will not leave those do lot of Zikr. The power one can imbibe by saying "SUBHANALLAH" with full presence of heart can not be achieved by no other means! Always remember the two soft words for toung but heavy in the balance of virtues in the life after death: "Subhanallahi Wabihamdihi Subhanallahil Adheem".
- The function of heart and brain:
When you say, my heart is broken …where do you feel it?
In Malayalam we say “Hrudayam tagarnnu poyi”.
The mentioning in Quran which says ”the hearts in their chest are blind….”
Are these statements just linguistic usages or do they have real meaning?
- The three similar verses which says “They have ears but they don’t hear(or listen?)with it”; “They have eyes but they don’t see with it”; “They have hearts but they don’t ponder with it”.
Where is mind? What is its relation with the heart?
Let me pause here with the last three questions for you all to comment in the comments column.
Foot Note:
Those in Jeddah: Kindly invited to attend these weekly classes in Islamic Education Foundation – in Mushrifa district.
Others: Seek the depth of Quran by all available means. It is the message to mankind. Yes to each individual of us from the Creator!
Lessons from Hajj - the fifth Pillar of Islam
We have just come upon the conclusion of this years Hajj. What are the Lessons that we take from Hajj? What was the purpose of the Journey/Pilgrimage? What can we learn as Muslims from this Great Once in a Lifetime experience?
Islam is based on statements, actions and intentions
The most important statement that one can make is the shahada. The testimony or declaration of ones faith which classifies him/her as a muslim
The actions which follow this statement complete the 5 pillars of Islam are Salat, Zakat, Fasting Ramadan and Hajj
The Salat - which is the first action that we will be judged upon, and that a Muslim will be questioned about when we meet Allah. This action confirms the truth of our statement of belief. It is highly valued and weighed. It is said in a hadith that the sunah of Fajr salat can weigh more than everything in the world all together.
Other actions include Zakat, the giving of charity, a percent of ones wealth as a purification and expiation of sins hoping to receive mercy and forgiveness from Allah,
Fasting in Ramadan, to sacrifice all desires, food, water, sexual gratification, frustrations, anger, etc for the benefit of being purified, forgiven and rewarded
And lastly Hajj, to be performed once in a lifetime. This is similar to the shahada in the sense that it only has to be made one time and the reward for it is the same. Although Hajj is an action while the shahada is a statement they must both be supported. The shahada supported by action and the Hajj supported by intention because like the Prophet (saw) said every action, is by its intention. The person who successfully completes the hajj will be forgiving for all his/her sins from birth just like the person who newly converts to Islam. Each person returns to the infancy stage of living, becoming pure in the mind, body and soul. In order to obtain this great blessing of Hajj people had to go thru tremendous hardships and obstacles and exercise continuous restraint and patience and humility and sacrifice their time and money and effort and energy to complete the spiritual Journey. Because that is what Hajj is. It’s a spiritual journey of the mind, body and soul. It’s a submission to the decree of Allah, its obedience and sacrifice a struggle and awakening, a test whose beginning starts with a sincere intention, who’s middle involves constant statements, actions and perseverance, and who’s ending is a culmination of all those things which Allah will one day reward the person with Jannah for successfully completing. Because the Prophet (SAW) says, there is no reward for the accepted Hajj other than Jannah! If anyone struggles for the sake Allah sincerely sacrificing everything for the sake of Allah in full submission to him alone, Allah will grant him Jannah, inshaAllah, where there will be no more pain and suffering. “A reward for the pious (muttaqeen),” Allah says.
Hajj – an action that must be preformed by going out and leaving everything and everyone beyond in order to
Hajj - a spiritual revival – a re-awakening of the mind, a re-birth of the body and re-connection of the soul to its creator – Allah
Hajj teaches us how to live as One community, how to be one community, how to unite as one community, bringing us together from all parts of the world, dressing the same, doing the same, etc. teaching us the concept of true brotherhood based upon the prophetic examples. The prophet (saw) did what Ibrahim did, followed his example as all prophets followed each other. There were all brothers, links of a chain and we are supposed to be links of a chain too, not divided, not by country, color, race, social class, position, language, nothing. Muslims are one ummah, one brotherhood.
Hajj teaches us Humility, patience, restraint, self-sacrifice, perseverance, love, honor, respect, and nobility. We are supposed to establish a never-ending understanding within our own selves, a never-ending bond with our fellow Muslims from around the world and a never-ending bond with our master, our creator, our sustainer, our provider, the one who created us and said, “I made you different tribes and nations, so that you may get to know each other” not fight and kill each other, not argue and hate each other, not segregate and be far away from each other, but to be close and to love and to support and perform acts of worship together. To help each other get to Jannah. Because that’s the goal, that’s the reward for completing this life of hardship, for completing hajj, for worshipping Allah and doing whatever He and His prophet said to do. That’s it. That’s hajj, that’s life. Hajj is life. It’s a journey of the soul to get back to its creator.
.....This is the text of a speech by Brother Bilal Mohammad on 19th November 2010
Islam is based on statements, actions and intentions
The most important statement that one can make is the shahada. The testimony or declaration of ones faith which classifies him/her as a muslim
The actions which follow this statement complete the 5 pillars of Islam are Salat, Zakat, Fasting Ramadan and Hajj
The Salat - which is the first action that we will be judged upon, and that a Muslim will be questioned about when we meet Allah. This action confirms the truth of our statement of belief. It is highly valued and weighed. It is said in a hadith that the sunah of Fajr salat can weigh more than everything in the world all together.
Other actions include Zakat, the giving of charity, a percent of ones wealth as a purification and expiation of sins hoping to receive mercy and forgiveness from Allah,
Fasting in Ramadan, to sacrifice all desires, food, water, sexual gratification, frustrations, anger, etc for the benefit of being purified, forgiven and rewarded
And lastly Hajj, to be performed once in a lifetime. This is similar to the shahada in the sense that it only has to be made one time and the reward for it is the same. Although Hajj is an action while the shahada is a statement they must both be supported. The shahada supported by action and the Hajj supported by intention because like the Prophet (saw) said every action, is by its intention. The person who successfully completes the hajj will be forgiving for all his/her sins from birth just like the person who newly converts to Islam. Each person returns to the infancy stage of living, becoming pure in the mind, body and soul. In order to obtain this great blessing of Hajj people had to go thru tremendous hardships and obstacles and exercise continuous restraint and patience and humility and sacrifice their time and money and effort and energy to complete the spiritual Journey. Because that is what Hajj is. It’s a spiritual journey of the mind, body and soul. It’s a submission to the decree of Allah, its obedience and sacrifice a struggle and awakening, a test whose beginning starts with a sincere intention, who’s middle involves constant statements, actions and perseverance, and who’s ending is a culmination of all those things which Allah will one day reward the person with Jannah for successfully completing. Because the Prophet (SAW) says, there is no reward for the accepted Hajj other than Jannah! If anyone struggles for the sake Allah sincerely sacrificing everything for the sake of Allah in full submission to him alone, Allah will grant him Jannah, inshaAllah, where there will be no more pain and suffering. “A reward for the pious (muttaqeen),” Allah says.
Hajj – an action that must be preformed by going out and leaving everything and everyone beyond in order to
Hajj - a spiritual revival – a re-awakening of the mind, a re-birth of the body and re-connection of the soul to its creator – Allah
Hajj teaches us how to live as One community, how to be one community, how to unite as one community, bringing us together from all parts of the world, dressing the same, doing the same, etc. teaching us the concept of true brotherhood based upon the prophetic examples. The prophet (saw) did what Ibrahim did, followed his example as all prophets followed each other. There were all brothers, links of a chain and we are supposed to be links of a chain too, not divided, not by country, color, race, social class, position, language, nothing. Muslims are one ummah, one brotherhood.
Hajj teaches us Humility, patience, restraint, self-sacrifice, perseverance, love, honor, respect, and nobility. We are supposed to establish a never-ending understanding within our own selves, a never-ending bond with our fellow Muslims from around the world and a never-ending bond with our master, our creator, our sustainer, our provider, the one who created us and said, “I made you different tribes and nations, so that you may get to know each other” not fight and kill each other, not argue and hate each other, not segregate and be far away from each other, but to be close and to love and to support and perform acts of worship together. To help each other get to Jannah. Because that’s the goal, that’s the reward for completing this life of hardship, for completing hajj, for worshipping Allah and doing whatever He and His prophet said to do. That’s it. That’s hajj, that’s life. Hajj is life. It’s a journey of the soul to get back to its creator.
.....This is the text of a speech by Brother Bilal Mohammad on 19th November 2010
Eternal Peace
Bismillahi Rahmani Raheem (In the name of Allah, most gracious and most mercifull)
Today three million people from the nooks and corners of the world have gathered at ARAFAT near Makkah as part of the haj Pilgrimage- the fifth pillar of Islam. Believers round the globe (those who do not reach ARAFAT) are fasting on this day.
ISM Kerala is now promoting a campaign “Aaraadhyanekan Anaswara Shaanti” (Approximate translation: the Worthy of worship is single - Eternal Peace). I was lucky to hear a speech last Friday on this campaign by Br. N.M Abdul Jaleel, General Secretary of ISM Kerala.
It is Eid holidays here. I thought it is ideal for me to sit for writing few words based on what I heard from Br. Abdul Jaleel on the topic in my blog on this ARAFAT day. ARAFAT valley - what a unique seen it is to observe people from all class, tribe, nation and language stand together and pray to the Single God with all men having only two unstitched white pieces of cloth as the common dress.
Br. Abdul Jaleel started his speech by reciting the five wonderful words in chapter 112 of Quran.
Life is all about living in the “present” with the right understanding and spirit.
Knowing “the one Worthy of worship” is the first and foremost step in the right understanding. If someone manage to acquire this knowledge, it leads him to the firm conviction that God will not leave him alone un-attended.
Br. Abdul Jaleel quoted an example of a businessman in Qatar. This man lost five crore rupees when his partner – sort of - cheated him, a circumstance where a man can collapse completely. He did not loose hope. Shortly he managed to start another small business with the help from some of his well wishers.
Things were improving in its natural pace. He was tested once again when one day he was caught for a case in which he returned back a forged note to one of his customers! It is a serious case as all of us know.
He consulted some of his friends and decided to meet the officer in charge of the case and explain his innocence. “You are late – the papers have already moved to my superior, the officer said”
What to do now?
He decided to make a special supplication to Allah. He sat alone thinking about all the good deeds he did in life. Suddenly his mind got stuck on an incident in which at the early days of his business one Qatari forgot 5,000 dirhams in his shop. He was in great need of money on those days. Still he diligently searched for the owner of this money and handed over the money to its owner at his home. He prayed to Allah. Oh Allah, I did this because of you. If you had accepted this as a good deed from me, please help me out from this hard situation I am in.
He decided to go and meet the superior officer along with two of his friends. While he was about to reach the residence of the officer, he realized that somehow this area is familiar to him. When they reached the residence, the superior officer hugged him. He recognized him as the person who returned him 5,000 dirhams several years ago! Things were very easy then. The case was closed and he was able to continue his business as normal.
Yes- it is the result of the strong conviction. Man shall not loose hope at any circumstance in life.
Allah says in Quran : “Seest thou not that Allah doth know (all) that is in the heavens and on earth? There is not a secret consultation between three, but He makes the fourth among them- Nor between five but He makes the sixth – Nor between fewer nor more, but He is with them wheresoever they be……” (Chapter 58 Verse -7)
Br. Abdul Jaleel explained several other examples which were tore off from his rich life experience as the state general secretary of ISM.
Another example surprised brother Abdul Jaleel was like this. A young man lying on the bed for several years with broken back-borne were consoling him at a time of difficulty! When asked how he was able to be so strong in spirits – the answer was simple: I have now known my God. He had given me about 27 years of life with full freedom of movement. Now I am able to comprehend fully and appreciate the present state where I am able to be free from all the odds outside and concentrate myself on praising my Lord!
Br. Abdul jaleel quoted another example from the speech of KK Mohammed Sullami. Zaid Moulavi was giving a speech on Tawheed (Monotheism). The local people there mostly were with the background of praying to the great people in the maqbaras (Graves). One of them, who by nature was notorious for making violence, was arranged to make trouble while Zaid Moulavi deliver his speech.
Zaid Moulavi started the speech. Our trouble maker was waiting for the right time to start his agenda. But alas! For few seconds his attention caught to the words of wisdom.
“Alaisallahu Bi Kaafin Abdahu?” meaning “Is Allah not enough for his slaves?”
Zaid Moulavi spoke loudly in the speaker. “Folks ..go and ask any one – Is this not clearly written in Quran? Then why are people leaving Allah and going behind false gods, dead people etc?.....Go, go and ask”.
Our trouble maker was shocked for a while. He sneaked out and slowly went to the masjid nearby and knocked at the door of the Imam. He asked. “is there an verse in Quran which says “Alaisallahu Bi Kaafin Abdahu?” meaning “Is Allah not enough for his slaves?”.
Imam replied “Yes” it is there in Quran.
Then from today I don’t need the help of any ……except Allah, said our trouble maker in his rude style. Such is the power and change the truth brings to people once it is revealed to them.
Today I read in facebook page of Dr. Ismail Marutheri about the conversion of the sister in law of Tony Blair to Islam. Allahu Akbar!
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1323278/Tony-Blairs-sister-law-Lauren-Booth-converts-Islam-holy-experience-Iran.html
Madhavi Kutty (Kamala Das) the great writer became Kamala Surayya when she learned her Creator, the way one should learn and understand!
(Read about her: http://www.enotes.com/contemporary-literary-criticism/das-kamala )
Yvonne Ridly who went to Afganistan as a reporter became a Muslim when she studied Islam as per her promise while she was under capture by TALIBAN.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=slNC_jyjBcQ&feature=related
These three strong women are just some of the famous examples for people seeking to the eternal peace by knowing the single Worthy of worship! It is a state of peace through this life to eternal life after death – to the House of Peace (Darussalam).
Whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and, in the worship of his Lord, admit no one as partner. (Quran Chapter 18 : Verse -110)
Today three million people from the nooks and corners of the world have gathered at ARAFAT near Makkah as part of the haj Pilgrimage- the fifth pillar of Islam. Believers round the globe (those who do not reach ARAFAT) are fasting on this day.
ISM Kerala is now promoting a campaign “Aaraadhyanekan Anaswara Shaanti” (Approximate translation: the Worthy of worship is single - Eternal Peace). I was lucky to hear a speech last Friday on this campaign by Br. N.M Abdul Jaleel, General Secretary of ISM Kerala.
It is Eid holidays here. I thought it is ideal for me to sit for writing few words based on what I heard from Br. Abdul Jaleel on the topic in my blog on this ARAFAT day. ARAFAT valley - what a unique seen it is to observe people from all class, tribe, nation and language stand together and pray to the Single God with all men having only two unstitched white pieces of cloth as the common dress.
Br. Abdul Jaleel started his speech by reciting the five wonderful words in chapter 112 of Quran.
Life is all about living in the “present” with the right understanding and spirit.
Knowing “the one Worthy of worship” is the first and foremost step in the right understanding. If someone manage to acquire this knowledge, it leads him to the firm conviction that God will not leave him alone un-attended.
Br. Abdul Jaleel quoted an example of a businessman in Qatar. This man lost five crore rupees when his partner – sort of - cheated him, a circumstance where a man can collapse completely. He did not loose hope. Shortly he managed to start another small business with the help from some of his well wishers.
Things were improving in its natural pace. He was tested once again when one day he was caught for a case in which he returned back a forged note to one of his customers! It is a serious case as all of us know.
He consulted some of his friends and decided to meet the officer in charge of the case and explain his innocence. “You are late – the papers have already moved to my superior, the officer said”
What to do now?
He decided to make a special supplication to Allah. He sat alone thinking about all the good deeds he did in life. Suddenly his mind got stuck on an incident in which at the early days of his business one Qatari forgot 5,000 dirhams in his shop. He was in great need of money on those days. Still he diligently searched for the owner of this money and handed over the money to its owner at his home. He prayed to Allah. Oh Allah, I did this because of you. If you had accepted this as a good deed from me, please help me out from this hard situation I am in.
He decided to go and meet the superior officer along with two of his friends. While he was about to reach the residence of the officer, he realized that somehow this area is familiar to him. When they reached the residence, the superior officer hugged him. He recognized him as the person who returned him 5,000 dirhams several years ago! Things were very easy then. The case was closed and he was able to continue his business as normal.
Yes- it is the result of the strong conviction. Man shall not loose hope at any circumstance in life.
Allah says in Quran : “Seest thou not that Allah doth know (all) that is in the heavens and on earth? There is not a secret consultation between three, but He makes the fourth among them- Nor between five but He makes the sixth – Nor between fewer nor more, but He is with them wheresoever they be……” (Chapter 58 Verse -7)
Br. Abdul Jaleel explained several other examples which were tore off from his rich life experience as the state general secretary of ISM.
Another example surprised brother Abdul Jaleel was like this. A young man lying on the bed for several years with broken back-borne were consoling him at a time of difficulty! When asked how he was able to be so strong in spirits – the answer was simple: I have now known my God. He had given me about 27 years of life with full freedom of movement. Now I am able to comprehend fully and appreciate the present state where I am able to be free from all the odds outside and concentrate myself on praising my Lord!
Br. Abdul jaleel quoted another example from the speech of KK Mohammed Sullami. Zaid Moulavi was giving a speech on Tawheed (Monotheism). The local people there mostly were with the background of praying to the great people in the maqbaras (Graves). One of them, who by nature was notorious for making violence, was arranged to make trouble while Zaid Moulavi deliver his speech.
Zaid Moulavi started the speech. Our trouble maker was waiting for the right time to start his agenda. But alas! For few seconds his attention caught to the words of wisdom.
“Alaisallahu Bi Kaafin Abdahu?” meaning “Is Allah not enough for his slaves?”
Zaid Moulavi spoke loudly in the speaker. “Folks ..go and ask any one – Is this not clearly written in Quran? Then why are people leaving Allah and going behind false gods, dead people etc?.....Go, go and ask”.
Our trouble maker was shocked for a while. He sneaked out and slowly went to the masjid nearby and knocked at the door of the Imam. He asked. “is there an verse in Quran which says “Alaisallahu Bi Kaafin Abdahu?” meaning “Is Allah not enough for his slaves?”.
Imam replied “Yes” it is there in Quran.
Then from today I don’t need the help of any ……except Allah, said our trouble maker in his rude style. Such is the power and change the truth brings to people once it is revealed to them.
Today I read in facebook page of Dr. Ismail Marutheri about the conversion of the sister in law of Tony Blair to Islam. Allahu Akbar!
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1323278/Tony-Blairs-sister-law-Lauren-Booth-converts-Islam-holy-experience-Iran.html
Madhavi Kutty (Kamala Das) the great writer became Kamala Surayya when she learned her Creator, the way one should learn and understand!
(Read about her: http://www.enotes.com/contemporary-literary-criticism/das-kamala )
Yvonne Ridly who went to Afganistan as a reporter became a Muslim when she studied Islam as per her promise while she was under capture by TALIBAN.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=slNC_jyjBcQ&feature=related
These three strong women are just some of the famous examples for people seeking to the eternal peace by knowing the single Worthy of worship! It is a state of peace through this life to eternal life after death – to the House of Peace (Darussalam).
Whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and, in the worship of his Lord, admit no one as partner. (Quran Chapter 18 : Verse -110)
Micro Finance and Islamic Banking
With microfinance institutions under attack for allegedly focusing on profit at the cost of poor borrowers, an alternative way of lending—based on Islamic principles—is gaining ground.........
To read more:
Copy and paste below web link in your browser.
http://www.livemint.com/2010/09/22221729/Faith-shows-a-new-way-to-micro.html?h=B
To read more:
Copy and paste below web link in your browser.
http://www.livemint.com/2010/09/22221729/Faith-shows-a-new-way-to-micro.html?h=B
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